How to Go Green with Rubber Mulch

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By Dave Ward
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Rubber Mulch Your Yard

Rubber mulch recycles a very difficult to recycle product: tires. Just as importantly, it helps every gardener go green by saving trees destroyed by mulch. Rubber mulch costs more up front, but lasts for years and years. Wood mulch or bark has to be replaced every one to two years.

Need more convincing?

Rubber mulch is non-toxic and safe for animals and plants.
Rubber mulch usually contains anti-fungal treatment.
Rubber mulch will not attract termites to your house.
Rubber mulch will not freeze, blow away, or sink in soil.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

PURCHASE RUBBER MULCH IN BULK TO SAVE MONEY.

Many big box discount stores sell rubber mulch in bulk. Some specialty websites sell them in even larger quantities. As with most materials, the more you buy at once the more you save. It is better to rubber mulch your entire yard, rather that a piece at a time.
Step 2

REMOVE ANY OLD MULCH FROM THE AREA.

The old mulch will mold, rot, and attract insects. It is better to remove it completely before continuing to install rubber mulch.
Step 3

THOROUGHLY WEED BEDS, AND SPRAY WITH WEED KILLER.

Rubber mulch discourages weeds on its own due to its weight and lack of organic material. However, it will prolong your weed free experience to spray them down.
Step 4

(OPTIONAL) LAY DOWN WATER PERMEABLE PLANT BARRIER.

These kinds of ground cloths are optional. Many rubber mulch installers suggest this. You may not like to dig the stuff up later if you decide to move the beds. However, they will extend the weed free time zone.
Step 5

INSTALL YOUR CHOICE OF BORDERS TO RETAIN RUBBER MULCH.

Many gardeners forgo borders all together using an edger and weed killer to keep a clean edge. However, with rubber mulch a good lip on the border can keep any chance spreading contained. Rubber mulch will not blow away except in the most extreme winds.
Step 6

LAY RUBBER MULCH 1 TO 2 INCHES DEEP.

The deeper you lay the mulch the better weed protection you will have and the longer the mulch will last. (You can rake it over after a four or five years to rotate the mulch as it fades in color).

See tips below for more help on going green with rubber mulch.

Comments

rubbermulch said

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on 11/10/2009 If you are looking for great deals on rubber mulch, Recycled Rubber Products is the place to buy it from. They are the manufacturers of rubber mulch, so you're not paying the high prices of dealers. They are friendly and have great customer service. Call their number at 815.436.5587

Give them a call--they do free and quick quotes over the phone. They sell in bulk and small quanities