For as long as trees have grown in forests,
leaves and needles have fallen to the ground
and formed a natural protective layer over
the soil. This same protection can be given
to the plants in our landscapes by mulching.
Mulching can make a big difference in the
success of your landscape. Mulches conserve
soil moisture, allowing you to water less
often; keep down weeds; reduce erosion; keep
plant roots cool; provide winter protection;
and make your yard more attractive.
Mulches also simplify lawn mowing around
trees and shrubs. A ring of mulch allows
you to bring your lawn mower right up to
the edge of the mulch, eliminating the
need for string weeders. At the same time
you are protecting tree trunks and surface
roots from damage by mowing and clipping
equipment.
Mulches made from plant material are organic
mulches. Over time, organic mulches will
decompose and become part of the soil.
This is a great advantage, because this
decomposition adds organic matter to your
soil, helping the soil to better retain
water and nutrients-giving you healthier
plants. This means, however, that organic
mulches will have to be replenished from
time to time.
Bark mulches are usually made from the
by-products of pine, cypress, or hardwood
logs. Most common are shredded bark and
bark chunks. Bark mulches resist compaction,
will not blow away, are very attractive,
and are readily available. Some shredded
barks, such as cypress, decompose slowly.
Bark chunks (also called nuggets or decorative
bark) decompose most slowly but do tend
to wash away.
Wood chips are made from many different
kinds of trees. Wood chips make an excellent
mulch that resists compaction, stays put,
and weathers to an attractive silvery-gray
color. In addition, they are often available
from municipalities or utility companies
for little or no cost. However, such "bargain" mulches
are likely to contain seeds from trees
and other plants that can sprout and create
weed problems. Also beware of such mulches
that have not been properly aged or composted.
Mulch that has not been aged can be toxic
to plants due to the formation of organic
acids during the decomposition process,
and, if placed too close to tender stems,
will harm or kill plants. Purchasing mulch
from a reputable dealer who has monitored
the decomposition process to achieve a
high quality, aged product will do a lot
to ensure that your valuable plants will
not be harmed.
Leaves that have been shredded with a
composting mower are sometimes used as
a summer mulch, although they decompose
very quickly. Whole leaves can be used
instead, but they tend to mat together
and block water movement into the soil.
We analyze your lawn and yards needs and
then recommend the type of mulch which
will best suit your needs. We usually prefer
an organic mulch since it can fulfill a
number of needs with the least overall
concern for side impacts to your yard's
beauty.
If you have questions about mulching for
your yard - please contact
us. |
