Myth Busters: Mulch Edition

It’s time to discover the truth about mulch. You won’t believe what really happens in your garden. Mulch isn’t just a layer of wood chips or shredded leaves. It’s a vital component that can make or break your lawn’s health, appearance, and productivity.

Get ready to uncover the real deal as we separate fact from fiction.

Myth #1: All Mulch Is Created Equal

FACT: Not all mulch is cut from the same cloth.

Myth has it that any mulch will do, but the reality is far more nuanced. Mulches come in a wide variety of types and colors, and each one has unique characteristics. Homeowners and businesses would do well to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of different options.

For example, organic mulch can help enrich the soil as it decomposes, but you have to replenish it yearly. While it improves soil structure and provides essential nutrients to plants, organic mulching can be a time-consuming process without professional services.

On the other hand, inorganic mulch offers longevity and can be better for spots where moisture retention is problematic. However, it does little to nourish the soil or plantings, and it can scatter under heavy foot traffic or extreme weather conditions because it never decomposes.

Myth #2: Mulch Attracts Pests and Rodents

FACT: High-quality mulch and professional installation help mitigate pest and rodent activity.

While some pests might find your mulch beds cozy for nesting, proper installation and maintenance can help mitigate their presence. Combat potential issues with expert services and strategic placement. Then, choose a well-composed variety to reduce the risk of infestation.

Meanwhile, keep mulch layers thin enough to reveal unwanted guests and minimize hiding spots. Good mulch should perform like a protective barrier against weeds and pests, making it a garden ally rather than a target. Schedule routine lawn care services to ensure that.

Myth #3: More Mulch Is Always Better

FACT: Piling and creating mulch volcanoes is counterproductive.

It’s true that mulch offers multiple benefits to your plants, including soil moisture retention, increased nutrient density, better temperature control, and so on. Yet, too much of a good thing can do more harm than good. Excessive mulch piling blocks the flow of water, air, nutrients, and sunlight.

Mulch volcanoes create an ideal environment for fungal diseases and pest infestations, especially after it rains. So, don’t overload your garden with inorganic or organic mulch. Instead, aim for a depth of 2-4 inches and spread it evenly throughout. Remember, less is more when it comes to adding mulch to your landscaping.