Bark mulch, rocks, and stones are very popular landscape materials here in Central Florida, and with good reason. Organic mulch has environmental and positive health benefits for your soil and plants. Mulch is also affordable and makes your landscape look nice and tidy.
What is Mulch?
Mulch is basically any product that covers the soil. It can be non-organic (such as rocks and stones), they are great at keeping the soil from drying out and last a long time. Organic mulch (such as bark), releases vital nutrients into the soil, thus improves the soil quality.
“Mulch helps retain soil moisture, protects plants, and inhibits weed growth. It gives your landscape a neat, uniform appearance and is a great Florida-Friendly choice for hard-to-mow areas and shady spots. Keep a 2- to 3-inch-deep layer of mulch on plant beds. Always leave at least 2 inches of space around tree trunks to prevent rot.” Florida Friendly Landscaping.
Benefits of Mulch:
Mulch reduces the germination of weeds
Mulch helps retain soil moisture
Mulch gives your landscape a finished appearance
As organic mulch decomposes, it improves soil structure
Mulch moderates soil temperatures, keeping the soil cool when the temperature is hot, and warm when the temperature is cold.
The traditional organic mulch is very popular in Central Florida, but decorative rocks are a growing trend. They come in a variety of styles, making it easy to add a touch of color to your property, lower maintenance, improve drainage, and suppress weeds.
Natural stones are very versatile, they are a durable ground cover and can add rich texture to the landscape. Low maintenance plants and rocks create a sustainable and harmonious environment that also saves time, money, and energy. A few growing trends in rock mulch include;
By adding medium sized river stones under a shrub it can create the look of a living sculpture.
A rock garden can give your landscape an exotic feel.
That fairy tale feel can be achieved with a border of larger rocks around a backyard pond.
Create a modern path with gravel and stepping stones that separates plantings and efficiently drains water
Ensure you purchase your mulch from a reputable source. Reliable Peat can help you win your battle over weeds and save money by offering 10% off all bulk orders over 6 yards, just make sure you mention this blog before checking out. Our goal is to offer the highest quality products at the best price.
