B&B Companies Home B&B Mulch Resources Mulch Basics

Mulch is not just for looks, it is also a practical way to maintain moisture in soil. Decrease time spent weeding, watering, and worrying about plants and grass just by using mulch. Mulch allows soil to breathe, allowing more growing potential to plants, grass, and gardens. Organic mulch is made of any natural material that decomposes over time. As decomposition occurs, organic mulch adds nutrients to the soil. Some types of organic mulch are wood chips, straw, and pine needles. Inorganic mulch is made up of inert materials such as rock, rubber, or plastic.

Mulch protects the soil, keeping it cool and moist in the summer and acts as an insulator from the cold in the winter. In order for mulch to be fully effective it should be spread evenly 2-4 inches thick. This will allow soil to be protected from sun or frost. Benefits of mulching include:

• Richer Soil
• Moisture Retention
• Healthy Plants
• Reduction of Weeds
• Water Conservation
• Beautiful Landscape

Different types of mulch can be used for all types of conditions. The most commonly used type of mulch is wood chips. Wood chips can be made from any type of tree and can be coarsely chopped, large, or shredded. Wood chips are very useful on slopes and paths because they are not easy displaced. Another common type of mulch is straw. Straw is highly available and relatively cheap. After grass seed has been harvested from its stalk, the dead stalk is then used as mulch. Straw is best to use on newly seeded lawns or vegetable gardens. Pine needles are another type of mulch that is good for acid loving trees and shrubs. They decompose slowly and should be replaced annually. Bark mulches are made from the by-product of milled trees. They are typically heavier than other mulches and are less susceptible to being blown away.