The right mulch for your garden should do more than “feel” right. It should provide you with clear and hidden benefits, look amazing and be an all-around excellent choice. These might seem like lofty goals, but as many experienced gardeners are already aware, it is not only possible but easily achievable.
Still, it isn’t enough to just choose some random mulch product and hope it will meet the criteria outlined above. No, you will need to come prepared with the right knowledge about mulch, and, more importantly, the right goals in mind. Understanding what mulch can and cannot do for you will help you select the right product and avoid any outlandish claims or unnecessary benefits. Learn more about how to choose the right mulch below.
How to Choose the Right Mulch for Your Garden
Choose Based on Aesthetics
It would be incorrect to state that mulching isn’t about aesthetics. While mulching does have a fair amount of other benefits (which we get into below), one of the main draws of the material is the aesthetic it offers for your garden beds. Therefore, you should consider mulch from a visual perspective and as a part of your garden or landscaping planning. Thinking of the final look you are trying to achieve will help you choose your mulch products, and in a complementary way, choosing your mulch may help inform other decisions about your garden.
Choose Based on Garden Health
Mulches can have many benefits for your garden. Nutrient-rich mulch breaks down over time, giving your plants nutrients and helping maintain garden health. Mulch can also help with water retention in your soil, and some mulch products are also antifungal. Plus, adding an appropriately thick layer of mulch can also help you ward away weeds and other pests.
Still, not all mulches have all these benefits. You may want to select a lighter mulch for water retention, or a cedar mulch for its antifungal properties. The needs of each garden will vary, so for best results, speak with your mulch supplier for accurate and tailored advice for your garden.
Choose Based on Environmental Impact
Some commercial mulch products are not made with environmental impact in mind. They use toxic dyes and low-quality materials to decrease costs to the company while providing an inferior product for the consumer. To avoid this, work closely with your mulch supplier and ensure that they use natural, organic products in their mulch materials. This will help you prevent issues down the road with your garden, like overconcentration of minerals or other unpleasantness.
Choosing the right mulch for your garden doesn’t have to be complicated. Contact Soil Kings today for friendly advice, information and a wide selection of quality mulch products. We look forward to hearing from you.
