As we’ve discussed many times on this blog, mulching your landscape many benefits. Not only can mulch assist in regulating temperature, but it helps fight weed growth, resists erosion and generally speaking – can add significant aesthetic appeal to your landscape.
That being said – not all mulch is created equal and different type of mulch do different things. You may have noticed when you go to your local garden center than there are two primary forms of mulch: regular mulch and organic mulch. You’ve probably wondered what the difference is between the two and which one works better. The answers to those questions are what we’re here to discuss today. Let’s jump right in!
Organic mulch
Organic mulch is made almost entirely out of plant and animal materials that were alive at some point. When you use it, you’ll notice that over time, the matter will decompose. As it does this, it improves the overall composition of your soil because of it by returning nutrients to the soil. The downside to organic mulch is that it needs to be replaced frequently due to said decomposition. It also tends to be messier than inorganic mulch and has the not-so pleasant side effect of becoming a potential home for pests. Just bear in mind that because of that - it’s going to need a little bit more attention than inorganic mulch. That being said, there are a ton of benefits to organic mulch. It does an incredible job of moderating soil temperature, helps to fight erosion, conserves moisture and reduces evaporation. It’s also particularly adept at fighting the spread of soil-borne pathogens and other infections that can harm your plants and cause them to become sick.
Inorganic mulch
Inorganic mulch is comprised of heartier, man-made materials that either decompose slowly or don’t decompose at all. A few examples of inorganic mulch include plastic films, stone, landscape fabrics and even rubber from shredded tires.
These forms of mulch are more expensive than organic mulch and aren’t exactly appropriate for every situation. For some, they might find inorganic materials difficult to install and knowing what works well and where is essential. For example – rocks absorb heat, but they can also reflect it and the result could be burnt plants.
You just need to be careful about what you’re using these different products for. Which mulch you choose in the end really depends on what your landscaping goals are. Organic mulch supercharges your soil by providing nutrients. But it’s also messy and needs to be tended to. Inorganic mulch is far more durable than organic mulch and lasts a lot longer but has specific applications depending on what you’re using it for. Ultimately – it’s up to you.
If you’re still undecided as to what kind of mulch would be best for your landscape, then give us a call today and we’ll help you identify what works best for you!
Organic mulch
Organic mulch is made almost entirely out of plant and animal materials that were alive at some point. When you use it, you’ll notice that over time, the matter will decompose. As it does this, it improves the overall composition of your soil because of it by returning nutrients to the soil. The downside to organic mulch is that it needs to be replaced frequently due to said decomposition. It also tends to be messier than inorganic mulch and has the not-so pleasant side effect of becoming a potential home for pests. Just bear in mind that because of that - it’s going to need a little bit more attention than inorganic mulch. That being said, there are a ton of benefits to organic mulch. It does an incredible job of moderating soil temperature, helps to fight erosion, conserves moisture and reduces evaporation. It’s also particularly adept at fighting the spread of soil-borne pathogens and other infections that can harm your plants and cause them to become sick.
Inorganic mulch
Inorganic mulch is comprised of heartier, man-made materials that either decompose slowly or don’t decompose at all. A few examples of inorganic mulch include plastic films, stone, landscape fabrics and even rubber from shredded tires.
These forms of mulch are more expensive than organic mulch and aren’t exactly appropriate for every situation. For some, they might find inorganic materials difficult to install and knowing what works well and where is essential. For example – rocks absorb heat, but they can also reflect it and the result could be burnt plants.
You just need to be careful about what you’re using these different products for. Which mulch you choose in the end really depends on what your landscaping goals are. Organic mulch supercharges your soil by providing nutrients. But it’s also messy and needs to be tended to. Inorganic mulch is far more durable than organic mulch and lasts a lot longer but has specific applications depending on what you’re using it for. Ultimately – it’s up to you.
If you’re still undecided as to what kind of mulch would be best for your landscape, then give us a call today and we’ll help you identify what works best for you!
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