Types of Garden Mulch

I finally found a use for all my grass clippings this year. Mulch!

I started mulching my gardens this year and it’s been a gardening game changer. Read more about it here.

I use grass clippings as my mulch of choice for a handful of reasons:

1. We have a large yard so we have lots to cover the gardens
2. It’s easier to put the bags in the garden than in the green waste cans at the curb for pick up
3. It’s free
4. It adds nutrients in the garden when it breaks down

All types of mulch helps to: 

• Control weeds
• Retain moisture
• Regulates soil temperature
• Prevents soil erosion

You can choose from a variety of different types of mulch depending on what makes the most sense to you.

Organic Mulch
Organic mulch will decompose over time and add nutrients to your garden. Some types will decompose more slowly than others. Most organic mulch will need to be replaced yearly, if not sooner. Know the source of your organic mulch to ensure it doesn’t have any chemicals in it or contains visible weed seeds.

1. Grass Clippings ​​Decompose quickly and you may notice an odor when they’re breaking down. Will need to be fluffed up as they get matted down which prevents water from getting through.
2. Leaves Work best when shredded so they don’t mat together. Fall is the perfect time to rake the leaves into the garden so they start decomposing over winter. Leaves attract worms to your garden.
3. Straw Decomposes slowly so will last you the whole garden season. Attract spiders and other pest controlling insects.
4. Bark Mulch Best used in garden beds where you won’t be digging much, such as around trees and shrubs or on walking paths.
5. Newspaper or Cardboard Ensure that there isn’t any inorganic dye in the paper you use. Will need to be covered with a layer of another organic mulch. Can be used when creating a new garden bed by laying down a handful of sheets. Can also be shredded to be used in an existing bed if there isn’t space for full sheets.

Inorganic Mulch
Inorganic mulch will not decompose over time so it won’t add nutrients to your garden. It may be man made or natural material. You can add a layer of organic mulch on top to hide the material if you choose.

1. Black Plastic and Landscape Fabric  Best used around trees and shrubs where you won’t be doing much digging in the garden. Can get very hot in the summer so ensure the ground is watered sufficiently. Ensure that you have drainage holes so the water can get through to the dirt.
2. Rocks​ Best used in garden areas that need good drainage. Can get very hot in the summer so ensure the plants you use like the heat.

Think about the function and aesthetic you want to have for your garden when choosing a type of mulch. Also think about how much money you want to dedicate to buying your mulch. This may eliminate some of the above options.

What type of mulch do you use on your garden? Let me know in the comments section below.

​