After the recent winter storms, your yard is probably littered with tree branches, twigs and more debris. Clean it up by recycling it into mulch.

Making your own mulch for spring planting is a great way to use the organic material found right in your own backyard. Experts say mulched gardens are healthier, more weed free and more drought-resistant, plus gardeners spend less time watering, weeding or dealing with pests.

Organic mulches are made from all those tree branches, leaves, pine needles and bark that comes down during a winter storm. It also includes straw, grass clippings, compost, wood chips, sawdust and paper. If you’ve got large pieces to deal with, consider renting a shredder from the local hardware store to cut them down to size. Store your homemade mulch in a garbage can until you’re ready to use it.

Organic mulching prevents the soil from freezing and thawing in winter and keeps it cool and moist in summer. Its slow decomposition releases nutrients into the soil and encouraging earthworm activity, too.

The annual Hellebore Tea takes place at Lake Wilderness Lodge on March 9.