Why Preparing the Ground First Matters
When it comes to gardening, what you do before laying mulch matting can make or break your results. Many growers focus on the mulch itself but skip the vital first step: preparing the soil.
Remove Weeds & Old Growth
Before laying wool mulch mats, it’s essential to remove existing weeds, grasses, and old roots. If left untreated, these can quickly push through the matting and compete with your plants for water and nutrients. Even worse, a large “seed bank” of dormant weeds can spring to life under the mats if not managed first.
Improve Soil Structure
Once the ground is clear, loosen the top layer of soil with a garden fork or hoe. This helps roots breathe, improves drainage, and ensures your plants thrive with the full benefits of the mulch mats.
A Fresh Start for Seedlings
Preparing the ground properly gives seedlings the best chance to establish. Combined with the temperature-stabilising and water-holding properties of wool mulch mats, you’ll create the perfect growing environment.
To Cover or Not?
One of the most common questions gardeners ask is whether they should cover wool mulch mats with bark, stones, or other mulch. The answer depends on your goals.
Covering the Mats
Placing bark, pebbles, or compost on top of wool mulch mats can:
- Increase moisture retention – great in hot, dry areas, but risky in damp or shaded spots where too much water could cause plant stress or root rot.
- Improve appearance – some gardeners prefer a tidy, decorative finish.
- Add nutrients – organic mulch on top of wool mats will eventually break down into the soil.
- Release nitrogen faster – because extra covering materials speed up the biodegradation of wool, you’ll get a quicker nutrient release. This “nitrogen hit” can be beneficial for hungry crops or during the early stages of growth.
However, covering the mats also means they won’t last as long, as extra layers add heat and microbial activity.
Leaving Mats Exposed
When left uncovered, wool mulch mats:
- Last longer, as they are exposed to air and less microbial breakdown.
- Still suppress weeds effectively.
- Allow you to clearly see where they are placed in your garden.
For most home gardeners, a balance works best, using mats on their own for functional areas and adding decorative mulch where looks or quicker nutrient release matter more.
Final Thoughts
Wool mulch mats are one of the most effective, eco-friendly ways to suppress weeds, hold soil moisture, and protect plants. But the secret to success lies in the preparation.
- Always clear weeds and loosen soil before laying mats.
- Decide whether to cover or not based on your climate, aesthetic, and plant needs.
- Remember that covering increases nitrogen release but shortens mat life.
- Monitor moisture levels — too much water can be just as harmful as too little.
By taking these simple steps, you’ll get longer-lasting results and healthier plants this season.