Mulching is a great way to provide a host of benefits to your garden. While there are many different types, one you may not ...

In early winter, tender plants like Verbena bonariensis or dahlias will benefit from a thick mulch. It will help protect ... the quicker it rots. Cocoa shell is ideal for flowerbeds.

Many garden centers and most farm supply stores ... like a large annual container," Steil says. Don't choose cocoa bean shell mulch if you have pets—they're toxic to dogs, in particular.