Soil Building and Mulch Alternatives | Stephen Coan Garden Design

top of page

Soil Building & Mulch Alternatives

This section focuses on soil as a living system, not a blank surface to cover. The healthiest, most resilient gardens are built on structure, air, and biology, then protected with the right surface strategy: leaf mulch, compost, and living ground layers where appropriate. These links are here to help you avoid the common mistakes that weaken planting over time, including compaction, over-mulching, and treating mulch as decoration rather than protection. The goal is soil that improves each year and planting that becomes more self-sustaining as it knits together.

Screen Shot 2012-12-26 at 2.04.11 PM.png

THE XERCES SOCIETY

The Xerces Society is a nonprofit organization that protects wildlife through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitat. For forty years, the Society has been at the forefront of invertebrate protection worldwide, harnessing the knowledge of scientists and the enthusiasm of citizens to implement conservation programs. With a program to certify pollinator gardens.

Screen Shot 2012-12-26 at 2.00.26 PM.png

THE XERCES SOCIETY PUBLICATIONS LIBRARY

A science-based organization, the Xerces Society produces dozens of publications annually, all employ the best available research to guide effective conservation efforts. Publications range from guidelines for land managers, to brochures offering overviews of key concepts related to invertebrate conservation, books about supporting pollinators in farmland, to region-specific plant lists.

Screenshot 2026-02-03 at 5.12.44 PM.png

THE NATIONAL WILDLIFE FOUNDATION

The National Wildlife Federation is a voice for wildlife, dedicated to protecting wildlife and habitat and inspiring the future generation of conservationists. Also has programs for certifying properties and communities as Certified Wildlife Habitats.

THE BRANDYWINE CONSERVANCY

Protecting the natural and cultural resources of the Brandywine watershed and other selected areas, the Environmental Management Center has been instrumental in permanently protecting more than 45,000 acres of land through services to landowners, farmers, municipalities, and developers.

THE NATURE CONSERVANCY

The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people.

Screenshot 2026-02-03 at 5.40.33 PM.png

NEW JERSEY AUDUBON - GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE

In a few easy steps, you can make a big difference for local wildlife! Entice pollinators, like hummingbirds and butterflies, by transforming your outdoor space into a sanctuary enjoyed by humans and animals alike. It all starts with the end in mind by creating a plan for the space that you will transform.

Screenshot 2026-02-03 at 5.29.23 PM.png

NJ FISH & WILDLIFE - BACKYARD HABITATS

In a highly urbanized state like New Jersey, “backyard” habitats can make a big difference for wildlife living in or traveling through our neighborhoods. Big or small, we can turn barren lawns into native wildflower meadows, soften property edges with shrubs and trees for shelter, add water or a nesting feature, and watch as wildlife make themselves at home!

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

bottom of page