| Mulch Is More Than Decorative Mulch retains moisture, retards weeds, provides nutrients, controls erosion and insulates the soil protecting plants from extreme temperature variations. Too Much Mulch Is Harmful Mulch should be applied no more than 2 inches thick to provide a 1 - 1 1/2 inch blanket after settling . Building a volcano around a tree is an example of excessive mulching and it will cause more harm than good. It should never be placed against the bark of your woody plants, such as bushes and trees, it could cause disease. Mulches, especially hardwood mulch, compacts after a few rains. This compaction causes a dry condition under the mulch, which starves the soil and plants of air and water, promoting the growth of fungus and can cause disease to your plants. We recommend occasionally aerating or cultivating to reduce compaction. Mulch Can Be Toxic Toxic mulch, also known as “sour mulch” mainly occurs with hardwood bark mulches. This occurs when a mulch producer improperly composts the mulch. Methane, alcohol, ammonia and hydrogen sulfide gases will build to toxic levels due to the |
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lack of oxygen and too much moisture. “Sour Mulch” can kill your plants! Be aware and recognize it, the mulch will have a vinegar or ammonia smell. If the mulch has already been applied, water the mulch thoroughly.
All Mulches Are Not The Same There are many mulch producers across the country and around the world. Each sources their own raw materials and implements their own production methods. Due to these factors, you will find an enormous selection of mulches across the country. The most common types in the United States are hardwood bark, cypress, pine and cedar. Hardwood and pine mulches will break down and release nutrients into your soil. Cypress and cedar mulches break down extremely slow. Therefore, their benefits are primarily for decorative use, holding moisture, controlling erosion and retarding weed growth. Pine bark mulch holds up the longest and is best for your plants and soil. For help choosing a mulch that would best suite your needs, consult with a local nurseryman or a mulch expert in your area or you can contact us to speak to one of our mulch experts. |