Things You'll Need:
- Garden
- Mulch in either chips, bark or another variety
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Step 1
There are several different types of mulches that can be used in a garden, everything from wood chips to old newspapers. Most people use chips or bark because they add beauty and color to the landscaping.
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Step 2
Cedar, Pine and Cypress are the most commonly used ones because of their durability and smell. I love the smell of Cedar for my own personal preference, but that is a matter of choice, however wood chip mulches can be found and purchased at any local gardening center.
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Step 3
If straw is your choice to use as mulch, it is best used in a vegetable garden because it decays away and it will improve the soil as it is also ideal winter mulch for your perennial garden.
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Step 4
You should note to be very careful as not to purchase straw that may have a lot of weed seeds in it. If you have newly plant trees or shrubs, Pine Needles make for excellent mulch.
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Step 5
While cocoa hulls have a beautiful color and smell they should NOT be used if you have pets. Dogs are particularly attracted to the smell as so are cats. The cocoa hulls contain Theobromine which is extremely toxic to cats and dogs. Some dogs are attracted to the smell.
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Step 6
As you rake and pile your leaves if you can, go over them with you lawn mower to shred them and then use them as a garden mulch.
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Step 7
Spread them around and as they decay and rot away the will add nutrients to the soil. Rocks ad nothing to the soil as far as adding nutrition goes, but adding a 2 inch layer of rock will help deter weed growth.
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Step 8
Rocks are hard to get rid of once you have put them down even when they are laid on top of heavy gauged plastic so they are really best for permanent landscaping. Heavy gauged black plastic is another good weed deterrent, but it will hold water in the soil and should not be used in a poor draining garden
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Step 9
However in the spring it does make for a good ground warmer for your vegetable garden to help keep young seedlings from the still cool weather and then, simply cover with bark and this will keep your plants warm.
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Step 10
Whether you choose to use wood chips or bark remember that the bigger the pieces the harder and longer it will take for them to break down. They generally wash away during heavy rains.
