When we started clearing the land for our new home build, one of the first big decisions we faced was what to do with all the trees we had to remove. The “traditional” approach in our area is simple: cut them down and burn them. But as we thought about our long-term goals for this …
When we started clearing the land for our new home build, one of the first big decisions we faced was what to do with all the trees we had to remove. The “traditional” approach in our area is simple: cut them down and burn them. But as we thought about our long-term goals for this property, we realized there was a better way.
Instead of sending all that organic material up in smoke, we decided to mulch the trees right where they fell. It turned out to be one of the best choices we could have made for our land and our future garden.
Feeding the Soil
Mulched wood doesn’t just disappear—it breaks down over time, adding organic matter back into the soil. This is especially valuable for us since we plan to put in a large garden once the house is complete. By starting the process now, we’re essentially building healthier soil before we even plant the first seed.
Natural Weed Barrier
If you’ve ever cleared a patch of land, you know weeds are quick to take over. A thick layer of mulch helps smother weed seeds before they sprout. Instead of constantly fighting back invasive plants, we’re giving ourselves a head start with ground that’s easier to manage.
Reducing Mud on the Job Site
Another unexpected bonus: mulching the trees helped stabilize the ground during construction. Without a protective layer, rain would have quickly turned our site into a muddy mess. The mulch acts like a sponge, soaking up excess water and making it easier for workers (and us) to move around.
A More Sustainable Approach
Burning trees might have been faster, but it would have left us with nothing but ash. By mulching, we’re reinvesting those trees back into the land they came from. It feels good knowing we made a choice that’s better for the soil, the garden, and the overall health of our property.
This is just the beginning of our house build. I cannot wait to share every step with you!!! If you want to follow and see our house come to life, be sure to follow me on youtube where I’ll post weekly updates on the house! You can also join me on substack where I share more thoughtful content around our family and creating a purposeful life.
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