Mulch materials

Much ado about mulching

If you’ve gone to the trouble of landscaping a section of your yard, it makes sense to polish it off with a layer of landscape mulch. The options out there are numerous, and depending on your landscaping and area, some may be much more sensible than others. Whichever you choose, remember not to pile it on more than three inches thick and to leave a little space at the roots of trees and bushes to allow breathing and prevent fungus and rot.

First, you’ll need to decide how much labor you are willing to commit. Your garden will always be a work in progress, but different mulches need a little care now and then. Stone mulch requires the least amount of work, but they may increase the temperature and make some plants uncomfortable. Also, should you change your mind; it is a tedious decision to reverse.

An organic mulch, anything from pine bark to walnut shells, is nice if you don’t mind replacing it every year or two. Natural mulches also decompose into your soil and replenish trace micronutrients. However, many of them fade quickly from the vibrant tone that attracted you in the first place.

The dirt on mulch

Newly developed rubber mulches last practically forever and need little care, but some are put off by synthetic highlights in their garden. This is remedied nicely due to the wide selection of colors and textures available. Other unconventional options are plastic mulch and newspaper mulch. Below is a starter list to get you thinking about which is right for your garden. Thankfully, any mulch will greatly reduce time spent weeding, watering and cleaning your plants.

• Mixed Bark - A moderately priced mulch that is your all around winner. Classic and good-looking, an excellent weed deterrent, and affordable. Plan on replacing the bark every two years.

• Pine Needles - Another affordable solution. Pine needles look natural, allow perfect water penetration, and decompose very slowly.

• Stones - Though more expensive, don’t plan on having to completely renew your stones. Water seeps through easily and weeds pop up less. You’ll probably want a mesh layer underneath to prevent the soil from swallowing them up.

• Ground Cork - A unique, although expensive option. Cork requires only a thin layer and does not move much or decompose. Both water penetration and weed control are above average.

The best thing about choosing a type of mulch is that the majority of them will fortify your soil and are not a permanent decision. Have fun and experiment with the look that best complements your garden.