Mulch might not be a miracle formula that protects your garden from every hazardous element, but the right mulch can do wonders for your landscaping. The primary purpose of mulch is to cover the soil and improve its health. It promotes the growth of plants. In addition to being functional, organic mulch is used for decorative purposes in gardens. While mulch can’t be used as a permanent cure for the weeds, it can reduce the amount of weed growth in your landscape significantly. Weed needs sunlight and moisture to develop and multiply.

What are the Different Types of Organic Mulch?

Mulch deprives it of these nutrients and other elements, thus preventing its growth. Organic mulch consists of materials that are likely to decompose over time. Although these mulches need regular replenishing, they are considered ideal for all types of landscaping goals. Let’s check out the best types of organic mulch you can use in your landscape.

1. Grass Clippings

Gardeners recommend garden clippings to be used as mulch for several reasons. First of all, it is free. You can collect as much waste as you want from your lawn. Secondly, it is a perfect way to eliminate garden waste. The only drawback is that these clippings contain a high level of moisture, which generates a foul smell. So, it is best to use them in places away from your seating area.

You can lay a thin layer of the grass clipping on the soil, especially perennial beds, and vegetables. They are really effective in treating weeds, so if that’s your main goal, you should definitely consider grass clippings for your landscape.  Grass clippings are highly recommended for flower beds, as it suppresses the foul odor while adding the essential nutrients of the mulch into the soil. This promotes the growth of these floral plants, giving your landscape a colorful finish. Clippings should not be used if they are treated with herbicides and any chemical solution. They can hamper the plant’s growth.

2 Straw

Use straw as mulch for the vegetable gardens. When used in the right amount, straw can drive spiders and insects that can fend off the harmful pests off your lawn. The biggest advantage of straw is that it decomposes slowly. In fact, a thin layer of straw used as mulch in a vegetable garden can last an entire season.

In addition to vegetable gardens, straw is used in the newly seeded lawn. They protect the seed from birds and rodent attacks. Wheat and barley straws are also the best mulching materials for seeds that need moisture retention. Straw is an inexpensive alternative to inorganic mulch. Do not confuse hay with mulch as the latter can grow into weeds.

3. Garden Compost

Other best organic materials for soil mulch are compost food waste, manure, and your lawn products. Check if the compost has been broken into tiny pieces before laying it over the soil. The mulch must be spread evenly around the base. Garden compost can improve insulation, enhancing the drought tolerance level and preserving your garden from high temperatures and unfavorable weather.

You can use garden compost as a standalone mulch or combine it with other organic materials for a stronger layer. For instance, you can lay a thin layer of grass clippings on the soil and cover the top of it with a thick layer of compost. You can also use compost with bark and wood chippings.

4. Shredded Leaves

Use a lawnmower to shred the fallen leaves and turn them into mulch for your lawn. It’s a perfect way to clean your garden and utilize the waste in an effective way. The best part is it doesn’t require any special machine for the job. All you have to do is use the lawnmower with a  collection bag. Leaf mulch makes a great addition to your landscape, as it tends to improve the condition of your soil and make it more effective.

It is high in the nutrients your soil needs for speedy growth. Although it doesn’t look as attractive as other types of organic mulch, shredded leaves can blend in well with the soil. If you have laid them in spring, they will most likely blend nicely by the summer. If you don’t have time for shredding, use the whole leaves instead. They work as nicely as the shredded ones, but they look messy in gardens. Besides, the clumps of unshredded garden leaves can block the rainwater from reaching the soil.

5. Cocoa Chips

If you want the best nutrients without compromising on the look of your garden, you couldn’t find anything better than cocoa chips. These are famous for their dark colors and pleasant scents. You could use this organic mulch in nearly any type of landscape and for all plants. Cocoa chips tend to decompose faster than any mulching material.

So, avoid watering them frequently. Another problem with this mulch is that it’s pricier than grass chipping, shredded leaves, and newspaper. Most homeowners don’t have the budget for multiple applications. In addition to the high price, cocoa chips can be detrimental to the pet’s health. If you have a pet, use another organic mulch material.

6. Newspaper and Cardboard

Do you have tons of cardboard and newspapers? Instead of throwing them into a dumpster, why don’t use them as mulch for your lawn? Cardboard is an effective weed suppressant material. However, they need to be shredded before application.

Since newspapers and shredded cardboard boxes make lightweight mulch, they are often used in combination with other thicker materials. They must be laid in layers. For instance, cover the top layer of soil with shredded newspapers and put a heavier organic mulch on top of it. You can use grass clippings and shredded leaves to hold the newspapers in place.

Tip: Never use coated cardboard boxes or colored newspaper on your soil.

Bottom Line Hire My Landscaping in Edmonton to find the perfect organic mulch for your landscape. Call us now on tel: +1 587-806-4289 to learn more about different types of mulch materials. Our professionals will help you choose the best mulch for your garden.