3 Types Of Inorganic Mulch For Your Garden
Mulch can be used on flowerbeds, vegetable gardens and around trees and shrubs to suppress weeds, protect roots during cold weather and support moisture retention in the soil. By doing this, you can prevent plants from drying out during the summer months.
Additionally, mulch can be organic or inorganic. Organic mulches include grass clippings and wood chippings, which will decompose over time and add some nutrients into the soil. Inorganic mulches do not decompose, but this can have the advantage of not having to replace or top-up the mulch, which can reduce the cost of using mulch over the long-term.
Some types of inorganic mulch will also improve the aesthetic of your garden and are often selected by those who prefer the appearance of a professionally landscaped garden.
If you're interested in inorganic mulch, here's an overview of three types you should consider.
Rock
Rock mulch comes in a range of sizes, from pieces the size of gravel to boulders the size of a fist. They can make flowerbeds and borders look modern and clean, and depending on the type of rock you chose, they can add colour to your garden.
A thick covering of rock mulch will suppress weeds, but as they tend to heat up quickly in the sun, they can dry out the soil underneath. So, it's best to use this type of mulch for plants and shrubs that don't require a lot of water to thrive.
Landscape fabric
Landscape fabric is a relatively inexpensive option that will suppress weeds and allow for healthy airflow and water absorption. The thick black sheets are not very attractive, but they are ideal for use on vegetable beds, as they are easy to remove at the end of the growing season. Landscape fabric can be used on its own or with a layer of organic or inorganic mulch on top of it for decoration.
Rubber chips
Rubber chips have a similar appearance to natural wood chips, but they are made from recycled rubber goods, such as tyres. Rubber chips can be bought in a variety of colours, as the rubber is often dyed to increase the aesthetic appeal. This type of mulch can be used to aid moisture retention in the soil and protect roots from excessive changes in temperature.
These are just a few examples of inorganic mulches that are available from most gardening supply stores. If you're unsure of the right type of mulch for your garden, discuss your requirements with a gardening or landscape professional before ordering mulch. As mulch is such a heavy product, home delivery is offered as standard, and some garden supply stores will take back any inorganic mulch you have not used.
If you're ready to set up a mulch delivery, contact a garden equipment store today.