Mulch is quick pick-me-up that gives landscaping a more professional touch. Most mulch needs to be refreshed every one to three years. If you’ve never had it done before, or have been putting off adding a fresh layer, here are four reasons to consider adding mulch to your landscaping to-do list.

1. Instant Polish
Mulch is a hallmark of professional landscaping. It creates a crisp edge around your beds and a clean backdrop your plantings can pop against. A good layer will also deter weeds and helps hide messy debris, effortlessly maintaining your landscaping’s clean-cut appearance.

2. Define Your Spaces
If your vegetable beds, flower beds, seating areas and lawn seem to tumble together, what you need are some clear borders. Much like picture frame, mulch is an excellent way to make your divisions look tidy and purposeful. Mulched planting beds can also soften the transition between your lawn and hardscaping like patios.

3. Enhance Your Style
Mulch comes in a range of colors and textures. Even gravel can be used as mulch. Your choice can give your garden a more formal, natural or modern look. For instance, gravel is a popular choice for modern and Asian-inspired gardens. Thicker mulch often looks more manicured while thinner mulch is more relaxed.

4. Create Unity
A planting bed here and a water feature there can look lonesome and piecemeal without something to bring them together. Using one type of mulch as a backdrop in each area makes them look like part of a big picture. You can also choose mulch that either compliments or contrasts your home’s colors, like dark mulch with light siding, to enhance your overall curb appeal.

Spreading mulch is an easy weekend job or a no-effort proposition if you hire a landscaping company to do the work for you. It’s surprisingly affordable and makes a big impact on your outdoor spaces.