ARTICLES :: Mulch Types

Mulch Types  

By:  Melinda Sperl

All mulches break down into 3 basic types, biological, commercial and industrial. 

Biological mulch is the best type to use for your plants and gives you the most bang for your buck.  This mulch is usually called native mulch or screened compost and is first composted to kill weed seeds and disease.  When applied over your soil it can actually improve the soil quality making your plants healthier and your beds resistant to insects. This type of mulch can be purchased by the yard or by the bag.  If purchased by the bag it will have holes in the bag to let it breath. 

Commercial mulch is made from native bark and is the most commonly available in the bag.  The bag will be sealed and when opened it will have a strong odor.  It also tends to float in the rain and can attract insects including termites and fire ants.

Industrial mulch is the lowest grade of mulch which is usually made using diluted industrial waste like old pallets & construction woods and may contain industrial chemicals.  Because this is a lower grade of mulch it will usually be sold as colored mulch either black or red.  The Black mulch is made by burning the wood and Red mulch which is created by adding chemical dye, neither of which is good for your plants.  This type of mulch may also be high in alkalinity and salts that can be toxic to your plants.

So, the next time you buy mulch take a look at what you are getting.  If you are having problems with your plants it could be from your mulch.

Melinda Sperl is the owner of Dream Landscape Design, Inc., a full service landscape company.  You can reach Melinda at Melinda@dreamlandscapedesign.com or www.dreamlandscapedesign.com

Published in the Fulshear Times