Winter Yard Prep in Virginia: Mulch, Gravel & Drainage Tips

In January, Hampton and the surrounding region often get weather in waves—damp stretches followed by sharp, windy cold that puts your landscaping to the test. When the forecast flips, the same trouble spots tend to show up quickly: thinning mulch, muddy walkways, and low areas that hold water like a bowl. Mercury Mulch helps homeowners respond quickly with landscape material sales and delivery—so beds stay protected, and paths stay usable all winter long.

Protect Beds Fast

When the wind turns sharp, soil dries out quicker than you’d expect—and roots feel it first. The fix isn’t fancy. It’s insulation and steadier moisture.

Mulch, not mountains

Virginia Cooperative Extension recommends keeping mulch about 2–4 inches deep (not letting it build up beyond that) and pulling it back 3–4 inches from trunks and stems to avoid trapping moisture against the bark.

Compost vs. topsoil

Compost is ideal when you want better soil performance, not just more soil. The Virginia Cooperative Extension also notes that compost improves soil structure and helps water move into lower soil layers instead of puddling and running off—especially helpful during wet winter weeks.

On the other hand, fill sand and topsoil are best when you need to rebuild and level—filling low spots, repairing washed-out edges, and adding clean planting depth where you need it most.

Fix the Mud Tracks

If your dog run turns into a trench or your trash-can route feels like a slip-n-slide, don’t wait for spring motivation. Winter is the best time to fix the problem you can clearly see—because wet ground plus foot traffic is when ruts form fastest.

In high-traffic areas, stability depends on the foundation. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service recommends using a base course of gravel/crushed stone (or similar materials) on sites that require increased load-bearing strength and drainage.

Spot Drainage Red Flags

With cold nights and another round of wintry weather possible, don’t ignore these signs: standing water near downspouts, repeated ruts in the same route, or mulch washing out at bed edges. Those usually mean the yard needs drainage help or a stronger base layer.

Get It Delivered in Hampton and Nearby

Whether you’re topping beds with mulch, amending with compost, or building a sturdier path with gravel, Mercury Mulch can help you choose the right materials—and deliver them right where you need them in Hampton and the surrounding region. Contact our team at (757) 219-2033 to ask questions, schedule delivery, or request a quote.