After a tree removal crew left behind rough soil and debris, we stepped in to restore this Cleveland Heights backyard. In just one day, we tilled and leveled the ground, cut a crisp trench edge, and installed 6 yards of natural brown mulch from Highland Landscape Supply. The result was a clean, polished mulch bed ready for planting. The homeowner later added hydrangeas, creating a welcoming garden feature where there was once only a mess.
Location: Cleveland Heights, Ohio
Scope of Work: Soil tilling, bed edging, mulch installation
Materials Used: 6 yards of natural brown mulch (Highland Landscape Supply)
Timeline: Completed in one day
Client Add-On: Hydrangeas planted throughout the new bed
Tree removals can solve one problem while creating another — uneven soil, scattered debris, and bare patches that invite weeds. That was exactly the case here. Along the fence line, the yard was full of rough dirt and leftover root zones, with no definition between lawn and planting areas.
The homeowner wanted a space that looked neat and could easily support new landscaping, but the area needed professional prep before any planting could happen.
We started by tilling the soil to break up compaction and smooth out uneven spots. This step was critical to leveling the ground and ensuring the new mulch bed would sit flush with the surrounding lawn.
Next, we cut a trench edge to separate the mulch bed from the grass. Not only does edging give the project a clean, professional look, but it also helps prevent mulch from spilling into the lawn and keeps mowing easier.
Once the ground was ready, we had 6 yards of natural brown mulch delivered from Highland Landscape Supply. Spreading the mulch evenly across the newly defined bed created an instant visual upgrade while also helping with weed control and soil moisture retention.
The transformation was immediate. What once looked unfinished and messy now had clean lines, uniform mulch coverage, and a defined garden border.
The homeowner chose to plant hydrangeas throughout the new bed — a great choice for Cleveland Heights yards, where these shrubs thrive and deliver beautiful blooms year after year.
Q: How much mulch should I order for a project like this?
A: The amount of mulch depends on the size of your bed and desired depth. For this project, we used 6 yards to create a consistent 2–3 inch layer across a long fence line.
Q: What’s the benefit of edging a mulch bed?
A: Trench edging keeps mulch in place, makes mowing easier, and creates a crisp, professional border between the lawn and planting areas.
Q: Can mulch really help control weeds?
A: Yes. A proper 2–3 inch layer of mulch blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds and helps maintain soil moisture, reducing both weeds and watering needs. For an added layer of protection, you can put cardboard under the mulch and it will keep weeds away and deteriorate over time.
Q: Should I plant before or after mulching?
A: You can do either. Many homeowners prefer to mulch first, then cut through the mulch when planting, as this helps avoid soil compaction and keeps the bed looking clean.
Q: What plants go well in fresh mulch beds?
A: Hydrangeas, hostas, ornamental grasses, and flowering perennials are all excellent choices. Mulch keeps their roots cool in summer and protected in winter.
Q: How often should mulch be replaced or refreshed?
A: Typically once a year. Mulch breaks down naturally over time, adding organic matter to the soil. A top-up each spring keeps beds looking fresh and functioning well.
September 13, 2025