Weststander
Well-known member
If the soil is "clean" ie no couch grass, convulvulous or other pernicious weeds present, after planting, a 100mm covering of mushroom compost will prevent weeds from coming through and keep the water in. A good choice of plants means no dead-heading or pruning.
https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=818
2” or 3” of mulching, we use well rotted manure (cheap bags at Wickes) every early Spring gives virtually weed free borders. Plus all the other benefits - far less watering, soil enrichment and structure enhanced, naturally feeds plants. We also use home made compost for mulching.