Mulching Solutions

Mulch is a necessary component of any landscape or garden. Clients will often ask, “What do you recommend?” And my answer will vary depending on site conditions. So here are the mulching solutions I use most often in the landscape, and why:

HARDWOOD MULCH 

Shredded hardwood mulch will come in many grades. Single ground is often very corse, where triple-ground is quite fine. But a double-ground hardwood is my go-to mulching solution for many reasons. Once spread, it stays in place and remains attractive throughout the year. It is excellent at suppressing weeds and retaining moisture. It also withstands leaf blowing and heavy rains without being displaced. Hardwood mulch is a great option for most properties, and gives high aesthetic and functional benefit with moderate cost.

PINE BARK

Pine bark is another common mulching material. It offers a dark brown, medium-coarse texture and is a good choice for annual or perennial beds that may be worked in often. This mulch spreads well around small plants and is easily removed and replaced when adding new ones. The main draw back of pine mulch is that it is lightweight. This allows it to float and be displaced during heavy rains, and makes it difficult to blow without removing mulch material. Pine bark is a great mulch when used in the right situation, but its lightweight nature should be taken into consideration when choosing a mulching solution for your property.

PINE STRAW

Pine straw has long been a favorite mulching solution in the South. It offers a different look and texture than hardwood or pine bark and often at a lower cost. Pine needles will stay in place well, especially on slopes too steep for other materials. Pine needles are a great choice that will withstand heavy rains and offer moderate weed suppression. 

STONE

Stone is a long-term, low-maintenance mulching solution. While it has a high initial cost, this is offset by only needing to install it once. Stone mulch should be installed on prepared ground with a heavy, breathable fabric between the rock and the ground. This will keep the stone clean and the weeds out. When stone and fabric are installed properly, you have a mulching solution that it is easy to clean, withstands the heaviest of rains, keeps out weeds, and lasts forever! 

OTHER MULCHING SOLUTIONS

There are many mulching solutions used in the landscape. Some are better than others in certain applications. Some of it comes down to preference, and some is mandated by site conditions and the needs of the property. If you’d like to talk over some mulching options with us, give us a call and we will set up a time to look at the options for your landscape!