 | Justin Cawyer is the CEO of American Lawn & Landscape Inc., and has been in the landscape industry for 22 years. Starting out as a mowing service, their business has expanded to include everything from landscaping to fertilizing and weed control. For a complete list of services, you can see their ad in Names and Numbers, visit yardsbyamerican.com, or call 620-249-5700. |
Lawn, Garden & Landscaping
2012-06-01 11:27:22
Options in mulch
Q: What are my options in mulch, and why would one be used over another?
A: There are an enormous amount of choices in mulch, each having its own advantage in certain applications. Let’s break it down.
First, there are two basic kinds of mulch, organic- such as straw and bark, and inorganic such as rock or plastic sheeting. There are times when both organic and inorganic are used in the same application, as in putting down paper or plastic and then bark on top.
What you use depends on your situation and to a large degree on your personal preference.
Let’s cover some of the basics on organic mulches first.
Most people prefer organic mulches because of the affordability and the attractiveness. Another advantage is that over time, organic mulches decompose and add nutrients to the soil. Some of the disadvantages include (in some cases) attracting bugs, harboring pests, and upsetting the pH balance of your soil as it decomposes.
The most popular choices in mulch include shredded hardwood or pine bark. As a rule, the shredded bark is generally more expensive than bark. Getting an even or thin spread is much easier with the shredded hardwood than with chunks of bark.
Although a bit costly, cedar bark is a prime choice as it smells wonderful and repels pests such as termites. For this reason, cedar is a good choice for application near structures.
Other choices include:
• Shredded leaf
• Grass clippings
• Straw
• Hay
• Compost mulch
• Cocoa Hulls
These choices are less preferable as most of them may actually carry weed seeds. Cocoa hulls, while beautiful and exotic, may be poisonous to dogs and cats if ingested.
Before you choose an organic mulch, be sure you find out the advantages or disadvantages to the soil. As the mulch breaks down, it will change the chemical make up of the soil that may affect the growth of certain plants and flowers.
