Mulch instead of digging something in. Fertilize if there are specific indications it is needed.

where did all the old mulch go.. if it disappeared..INTO THE SOIL .. then you already amended ..

add an inch layer of well rotted manure.. they sell it in bags.. and then just topdress with the mulch ..

are your plants declining that you think you now need to spend money on soil amendments???

ken

debra - This time of year i usually try to add an inch or so of compost to my hosta beds and scratch it in to the top couple inches of soil. It is easier to do it now rather than after the hostas unfurl. I do spread a little milorganite around but more to deter the deer than for fertilizer. I've done very little mulching in the past but am considering some wood chips on a bed or two.

Ken, I have always mulched, but much of it gets raked up with the leaves in the fall. I live in a city so I pretty much have to rake…..everyone does. As much as I’d like to leave the leaves on the garden, they would be blown around my neighbors yards (not appreciated) and people could fall when the leaves get wet. Also makes it hard to remove snow (required by city.) All that said……whew, I didn’t even get the chance to mulch last year with hip issues preventing me from getting going early.

There are chips in the garden, just not a lot. Also I do have some hostas that did not do well….,shrunk, crown rot……l but I have thought under performance was root related. Maple roots 😝

debra