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Should I Remove Old Mulch?

Whether you’ve done your own landscape maintenance work for years or you’re just now learning how to install mulch in your landscape beds, you might find yourself wondering whether or not you should be removing the old mulch. The answer is typically no; just leave it in place. However, there are a few scenarios that might necessitate removing the old mulch. We’ll review several of these scenarios to help you decide if you should remove old mulch or not.

When to Remove Old Mulch?

Every now and again you might find it necessary to remove the mulch you currently have in your planting beds. If there is nothing wrong with the mulch, you might consider bagging it up and giving it away. Otherwise, it should still be bagged up and taken to your city-approved landfill.

If Mulch is Too Thick

If you mulch regularly and perhaps too frequently, you might have a bit too much mulch in your garden beds. Mulch should be installed to a depth between 2 and 3 inches. If more than 3 inches in depth, then the old mulch should be removed to make room for new.

If Changing Mulch Colors

You might want to switch to a new color or type of mulch material altogether. If so, removing the mulch is not necessary but might be preferable in order for your mulch installation to look its best.

When Rototilling Soil

If you need to rototill the soil in your garden bed, it is best to remove the layer of mulch first so you can ensure you are tilling the soil.

If Mold or Pests are Present

If mulch is infested with pests or has mold, you should definitely remove it. Check to see if your plants have been impacted. Take some time to research and select the best mulch for your landscaping to help avoid future pest problems.

If Installing Landscape Fabric

Landscape fabric should be installed directly above soil, so removing old mulch is needed prior to installation. Once installed, you can reuse the old mulch if you want.

When to Keep Old Mulch?

More often than not, you will keep your existing mulch in place and simply replenish it with new mulch. Here are some of the most common reasons to keep your old mulch.

To Help Control Budget

Since mulch is installed to a 2”-3” depth, removing the old mulch each time would require all new mulch. Replenishing the old mulch will help cut back on the cost of your project.

Routine Mulch Replenishment

For routine mulching, unless your mulch color or type is changing, there is typically no need to remove the existing mulch.

To Save Time & Labor

Removing old mulch adds unnecessary time and labor to your landscape maintenance tasks.

To Avoid Dump Fees

Removing old mulch from your flower beds will need to be disposed of at a landfill. Most local city landfills charge a fee to dump it, and some won’t even take color-dyed mulch because it’s considered toxic.