I am technically in zone 4a, Minneapolis, MN USA but this winter has been
very odd. In fact, of the 7 winters I have endured in this fair city each
has been fairly unique. 3 winters had barely any snow. One was extremely
mild, temperature wise and the other two had at least 2 weeks of hideously
cold weather, with temps well below 0, and in the 20s and 30s below with
windchill, so very cold and very windy. I have been very lucky with the
perennials that I have planted and haven't really mulched them. I have a
nice hidcote lavender that has come back every year. I am less certain this
year because of the bitter temps with no snow cover. I'll use it as a test
case. I don't really grow any tender perennials, to keep maintenence low.

I am wondering what I should do for the future in my new garden (we are
moving this spring). Should I plan to mulch every year in Oct? Our coldest
weather generally doesn't show itself until January. Could I wait until
Dec. and mulch if the snow cover is too light or is this too risky? What do
other people do?

And what is the best bang for the buck on mulch for these conditions? I've
heard that leaves generates mold, as does straw/hay. Bark mulches are kind
of expensive if you use them extensively.

mm