Mulch is a staple for most professional landscapes. It’s subdued, quietly sitting there in the background, like mild-mannered Clark Kent, as trees and flowers take center stage. While the plants get all the glory, the real superhero of any landscape is Mulch, ready to protect its world from dangers at every turn.
There are two types of mulch to choose from: Organic and Inorganic. Organic mulch is usually wood chips, but pine straw, grass clippings, and crushed leaves can also be used as natural mulch. Inorganic mulch consists of pebbles, crushed rock, plastic or rubber mats, or plastic chips. Choosing the right mulch for your landscape depends on several factors such as climate, where you live, where on your property you’re putting the mulch, personal preference, and budget.
When Mulch dons its superhero cape, it springs to life and relentlessly unleashes its mighty superpowers against the many villains of the world of landscaping:
It controls weeds. This is probably the primary reason most people use mulch. Pulling weeds is a literal pain in the back. Weeds have trouble popping up through it, and because the sun’s rays can’t penetrate it, few, if any, weeds will germinate in the first place.
It retains moisture. While organic mulch absorbs and retains moisture, both organic and inorganic varieties help to control evaporation which is a great benefit for your thirsty plants and keeps their roots from drying out on hot summer days.
It maintains your soil’s health. Organic mulches slowly decompose and give your soil needed nutrients, keeping it healthy.
It prevents soil erosion. Erosion can be caused by high wind or heavy rains. With mulch covering your soil, you are protected against both.
Insects hate it. Insects hate many types of bark or wood chip mulch. Cedar, cypress, and pine mulch are effective in repelling many types of insects including ticks, gnats, and fleas.
Earthworms love it. Earthworms help your soil be healthy and are great for gardens. They thrive in areas where there is organic mulch.
It provides temperature control. Large fluctuations in temperature can cause stress to your plants and mulch helps to keep soil at a more even temperature.
It insulates against the cold. In climates where winters are harsh, mulch can protect roots against harmful freezing temperatures. It can also prevent frost heaves that can greatly damage plants and even lift them out of the ground.
It helps reduce soil compaction. Compacted soil makes it difficult for plants to stretch their roots and grow. They need a little wiggle room.
It’s pretty! Mulch makes beautifies your landscape and makes it look more manicured and professional.
Whether you choose organic or inorganic mulch, your landscape will be beautiful and protected from the evils of weeds, weather, and insects.
Look! Down on the ground! It’s dirt! It’s leaves!
