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From aesthetics to health benefits, mulch can add much to any landscape. Not only can it
beautify your garden from ordinary to extraordinary, but mulch is crucial in maintaining soil moisture,
preventing weed growth, and regulating soil temperature. Keep reading for more reasons to install mulch in your
landscape and how to achieve a beautiful, clean look while doing it.
Benefits of Mulch
Before we get into the process of mulch installation, let's briefly explore why mulch is a
must-have for your landscaping projects.
Soil Moisture Regulation
Mulch can act as a shield, stopping moisture from evaporating too quickly from the soil.
During rainfall, mulch will absorb and hold the water, especially during the rainy season. This helps maintain a
consistent moisture level for your plants, reducing the need for watering frequency and the possibility of
overwatering your lawn. Specific mulch types, including pine mulch, woodchips, and shredded hard-bark mulch, are
best for water retention.
Weed Control
One of the primary benefits of mulch is its ability to keep weeds away. Mulch acts as a
natural weed barrier, reducing the need for harmful anti-weed chemicals and hours of hand-pulling the weeds. As
long as the layer of mulch is more than two inches thick, it will create that barrier.
For the Aesthetics
Mulch comes in many colors and types and often highlights the hue of the plants it
surrounds. Mulch also provides a neat appearance, helping to achieve an expertly tended landscape.
Soil Temperature Regulation
Mulch acts as insulation for your soil. It keeps the soil temperature stable by preventing
temperature swings and protecting the roots of your plants from cold or heat during
extreme weather seasons. Having the right temperature for your landscape is very important; if the ground
temperature is too low or too high, grass will not grow.
Mulch Types and Color Variations
Mulch is incredibly versatile, and with so many varieties, homeowners should consider
specific types that will fit their home’s current aesthetic. Here are some popular mulch types and their
differing characteristics:
Organic Mulch
There are many organic mulch types perfect for home gardens. Here are a few of the most
popular
organic mulch types:
- Bark Mulch: Made from shredded tree bark, bark mulch comes in a jagged, wood-toned selection. It's long-lasting, adds a natural look, and retains moisture.
- Wood Chips: Wood chips are a great choice for a rustic look often used on farms. The color ranges from a light, hay-colored hue to a medium. They break down slowly and enrich the soil as they decompose.
- Straw Mulch: More stringy and lightly colored than other mulch, straw mulch keeps plants' roots healthy. Straw mulch is often used in vegetable gardens to retain moisture and prevent soil erosion.
As a man-made component, inorganic mulch does not decompose but lasts longer than organic
mulch.
- Gravel: Gravel mulch is a popular, low-maintenance choice often used as a decorative element. But gravel also provides excellent weed control and conserving water and can enhance your garden’s design. It's suitable for xeriscaping and modern landscape designs as it comes in various sizes and color options.
- Rubber Mulch: Similar physically to darker organic mulch types, rubber mulch is made from recycled rubber and is a durable option that doesn't decompose. It's also soft, making it ideal for playgrounds or activity areas.