Want to save time spent weeding? How about saving water (which of course translates to saving money)? Say hello to mulch, the gardener’s best friend.

Covering the soil with mulch does four things:

1. It acts as an insulating blanket conserving moisture and keeping the plant roots cool.
2. It keeps weeds from coming up, smothering seedlings and keeping soil soft so that the weeds that do get through are easy to pull.
3. It breaks down slowly over the year, improving the soil beneath it. After five years of mulching you will be able to turn your soil with just a trowel.
4. It will cover the dirt making your beds look finished and neat.

To accomplish these four things, mulch 2-3 inches deep. Be sure to leave a few inches around the stems of trees and shrubs clear so the crowns don’t get buried (the plants need to breathe).

So what is mulch? Mulch is any organic matter laid on bare dirt between plants. One of our favorite mulches is Master Nursery Gold Rush. Gold Rush is a finely ground fir bark mulch with 15% chicken manure. It’s a fantastic mulch because it not only works well, but looks great too.

Vinegar is an essential ingredient in every kitchen, and flavored vinegars add another dimension in the preparation of dressings, mayonnaise, marinades, sauces and preserves. To make your own herbal vinegar, get a clean jar and fill it with your favorite fresh herbs. Fill the jar with vinegar. Use white or red wine vinegars, sherry or cider vinegars as a medium for a huge range of spice flavors. Apply a plastic lid (metal will rust). Label the vinegar with date and ingredients and then let sit for 4 – 6 weeks in a pantry or cupboard.

Suggested herbs for vinegars:

• Purple basil (makes very colorful vinegar)
• Tarragon
• Catnip
• Chives
• Dill
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Pineapple sage

These are only some suggestions; don’t be afraid to experiment with your own favorite herbs. Be creative by combining different herbs and spices. For example, you can make Italian flavored vinegar by adding basil, oregano, parsley, sage, and thyme.

Last Week's Question: From which flower does the expensive spice of saffron come from?

Prize Winner: Darcy Geshel has won a $10 Orchard Nursery gift certificate. Congratulations! Gift certificates are to be picked up within two weeks of winning. Winner must bring an ID to the nursery to claim the prize. Prize must be picked up in person. Employees are not eligible for this contest. Please stay tuned for another question next week!