Does the mulch do basically the same thing as the plastic weed barriers? I've never really used it, though I did put the plastic weed barrier down in my vegetable garden (it's wonderful there--starting from scratch and planting in rows anyway). The front flowerbeds already have plants in them, though, so I'm worried that if I put that kind of weed barrier down there I'll smother something. Plus, it's a pain to try to fit it around existing plants.

I think we're supposed to get some rain later this week. Maybe after that will be a good time to tackle those beds. I keep going out, looking at them, getting discouraged, and deciding to do it later.