Mulch Types

“Mulch” refers any material that is placed on top of soil to promote moisture retention, provide nutrients, moderate soil temperature and control weeds. In essence, the aim of mulching is to provide to the garden what leaf litter brings to the rainforest floor.

There are a number of organic mulch types available, each with their own benefits.

Leaf, Wood and Bark Mulch

The most popular, economical and versatile of mulches are those derived from leaves, wood and bark chips such as the Euci, Hardwood Chip, Pine Bark and Cypress Fine mulches available at Lower Mountains Landscape Supplies.

Alongside its natural decorative and fresh aromatic qualities, the course texture of these mulch types save water by trapping moisture and allowing it to gradually soak into the soil. By acting as a protective and insulating layer, these mulches also prevent soil erosion.

However, since the acidity of these mulch types can draw nutrients from the soil, they are best used over a layer of nutrient-rich straw mulch or compost for best results.

Straw and Hay Mulch

Lower Mountains Landscape Supplies’ sugar cane, pea straw and lucerne mulches provide maximum water saving benefits while feeding your garden at the same time. These nutrient-rich mulch types improve soil quality as well as providing an effective and affordable method of weed-control. In addition, the light colour of straw and hay mulches makes them heat reflective, preventing high soil temperatures that may cause root damage.

Compost

Compost adds nutrients to the soil as they break down. Alongside straw and hay, compost is the best mulch type for feeding a hungry garden. Its dark color also promotes heat absorption during winter, lengthening the growing season and allowing for earlier root growth in spring. Ask the horticulture professionals at Lower Mountains Landscape Supplies how our Cow and Compost Mix can help your garden flourish.