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- F.A.Q: Product related questions.
- Answers to questions related to landscape products like mulch, soil, retaining wall stones etc. This section illustrates the pros and cons of each type of product.
- 4. What types of mulch are there and what are the differences? - Top
- There are many types of mulch so to be brief in my explanation I'll refer to the most used ones and the most important factors without involving many specifics.
The different types of mulches include Organic, Hardwood, Reclaimed, Bark. Several of these are similar in use and appearance but offer different benefits.
Organic mulches are ALL NATURAL COMPOSTED mulch. They are likely composed of leaf compost, Hardwood, Brush and garden refuge. It's texture is Based on how many times it is processed. (sent through the shredder and sifter to filter out debris) A finer texture will breakdown more quickly and provide better results for the soil. excellent for moister retention, plant growth, soil amending and additional plant and soil nutrients. Holds it's color fairly well (fades as the year progresses) as any natural mulch will. Reasonable as a weed barrier, this is it's weakest point. An excellent choice for home owners who expect reasonable maintenance increments but demand the best nutrients for there landscape. Also a good choice for Gardners and people who have lots of flowers, shrubs, delicate plants, or roses.
A true Hardwood mulch is mostly made from trees, without the contents of compost or garden refuge. The texture is based on how many times it is processed. It will break down more slowly than a true organic mulch because it lacks the "softer" compost material. A good compromise on price, weed barrier functionality and coloring. But not so good at adding nutrients to the soil. A good choice for the home owner who expects average maintenance requirements and wants a cost effective solution.
Bark mulches are natural mulches made from the bark of the tree. They are usually more stringy in texture like "beaver shredded", or come in chips such as pine nuggets. The texture is based on how many times it is processed. It will break down more slowly than a true organic mulch or a typical hardwood because it lacks the "softer" compost material. A little higher priced but good weed barrier functionality and coloring. They are not so good at amending the soil or adding nutrients. They have a lighter brown color but hold it better than average. A good choice for applications where the home owner who needs average maintenance requirements and enjoys unique coloring and texture.
Cypress mulches are similar to Bark or hardwood but have a golden yellow coloring. Most cypress mulches now days are made from Reclaimed or simulated Cypress colors and sold as cypress. a true cypress mulch will usually be finer or more string like in texture. Cypress has a medium life span and provides weed barrier benefits but not as healthy for the soil. It Holds it's color better than average because you don't notice the fading as much with gold. . A good choice for Commercial applications or the home owner who want minimal maintenance.
Reclaimed or Recycled mulch is usually made from left over building wood or skids and pallets. It has a more coarse texture and will break down very slowly. (the slowest of all mulch) It it shredded or chipped and sometimes colored (red black, brown, golden) to give the desired effect. They give the best protection from weeds and last the longest because of its natural suffocating and slower break down qualities. They hold their color far better than any other mulch because they are Dyed! They however are not as healthy for the plants because of the lack of compost and nutrients. A good choice for Commercial applications or the home owner who want minimal maintenance.
Consider your application and choose a mulch that suits your needs. There is no best mulch for everything. A coarse mulch will last longer and provide better weed barrier protection but a quick break down is better for your plants and landscape. Finer shredded mulches will not blow around as much as larger pieces that tend to get messy with heavy wind. Organic mulches are the best selection if you can handle a little more maintenance and more frequent applications. MOST MULCHES FALL INTO ONE OF THESE CATEGORIES BUT SOME ARE COMBINED WITH OTHERS TO ACHIEVE MAXIMUM QUALITIES. Professional landscapers usually use a blend of organic / hardwood for a cost effective residential solution. On commercial applications we mostly choose Bark, Reclaimed, or Hardwood.
Now you know the important facts about mulch so check out our products page for specifics on each mulch. - Updated: February 23, 2003
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