One very critical aspect for any garden or landscape is mulch. There are so many benefits to using it for your shrubs and trees. No matter if you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, it is important to understand there are different types of mulch and how to use each of them for their specific advantages. Not only does using mulch enhance the visual appeal of your gardens, but it also suppresses weeds, retains moisture in the soil, and helps to improve the soil quality. Our team at Five Star Tree Services want to talk about mulch, explore the best options, and offer some tips for picking the right mulch.
Different Types of Mulch and Where to Use It
Pine or Cedar Bark Mulch
These are very common for mulch and are the most aesthetically pleasing. They are also quite durable but still compost slowly over time. This helps to make them suitable for pathways and large areas.
Cedar Bark
This mulch has been noted for having a natural insect repellent, which gives your plants added protection, and you as well from bugs!
Pine
Decomposes slowly, allowing you to get many years of use out of it before needing to reapply.
Compost
It is high in nutrients, acting as a soil amendment and mulch simultaneously. When used it will help to improve soil structure, nutrient content, and drainage. This makes it ideal for poor soil, to enrich it. You will want to apply a 2–3-inch layer of compost surrounding your plants. This is also going to help suppress weeds, retain moisture in the soil, and give your plants nutrients during the growing season.
Shredded Bark
A byproduct of lumber and paper industries, this is an environmentally friendly option to help use waste products from these industries and put back into the earth. This is best used for slopes because it interlocks, making it less likely to be washed away. As opposed to finer mulches that are lighter and can be easily pushed. Over time, shredded bark will enrich the soil. Organic matter will slowly decompose which will help to encourage beneficial organisms in the soil.
Cocoa Chip Mulch
This is a luxurious mulch, as it offers a rich colour and also a delicious chocolate smell. This is primarily used in ornamental gardens due to its appearance and how it is able to retain moisture. The one thing to keep in mind about this mulch is that you should not use it if you have dogs, for it can be harmful if they eat it. Avoid this mulch if you are a pet owner.
Straw
This type of mulch is lightweight and also inexpensive. It is excellent for vegetable gardens and new seed beds. In the summer, it keeps the soil moist and during the winter, it keeps the soil cool while providing good insulation. You should apply straw in a thick layer in order to effectively suppress weeds. However, you need to be cautious because it can harbour pests if you do not properly manage it.
Stones and River Rocks
This type of mulch does not contribute to organic matter in the soil. But when stones and river rocks are used, they are excellent if you want to create a clean, low-maintenance landscape. If you have any areas prone to erosion, they are perfect and effective there. You can also use them around succulents or other plants that are drought tolerant. Due to their weight, they will stay in place, even during heavy rains.
Choosing the Best Mulch Tips
Here are some tips on how to choose the best mulch for your gardens and trees.
-Think about your garden’s needs: there are unique requirements for each plant. You will need to pick a mulch that will help your plants’ specific needs.
-Consider how much maintenance you want to need to do: as we have pointed out above, some mulches last longer than others. Think about the amount of time you want to dedicate to the upkeep of your gardens each year.
-The depth of mulch needed: it is crucial to put the correct depth of mulch around your plants and trees. Generally, 2-3 inches is recommended. This will help to prevent root rot, regulate temperatures, retain moisture, and let proper water saturation happen.
How Five Star Tree Services Can Help
If you would like help with your tree care in Toronto, our team at Five Star Tree Services would be glad to help! We can help recommend the best mulch for you to use in your gardens. Give us a call at (416) 990-3355 today!