Three Organic Mulch Options For Your Landscape | U.S. Lawns - Franklin

Do you have questions about the purpose of mulch in landscaping? It’s simple–mulch refers to a variety of materials used as a soil covering on a garden bed. Using mulch over your soil can help retain moisture, prevent weed growth, and provide insulation. The right mulch can add significant curb appeal to your property. If you use an organic mulch, it will decompose and offer fertile nutrients to your soil. Inorganic mulch will not add nutrients to the soil, but it also won’t require replacement as frequently. U.S. Lawns - Franklin is here to help demystify your choices with a few of the most common organic materials.

When you set out to choose your perfect mulch material, you have dozens of choices to consider. Here are three favorite organic options:

Cocoa Mulch
Yes, as in the bean that feeds your chocolate cravings. Cocoa mulch consists of chopped cocoa bean hulls. It lends a rich chocolate brown color to your landscape, and a delicious fragrance that lasts for a few weeks. Cocoa mulch typically lasts between one to three years and may be applied as a 1 inch cover. Are you a dog owner? Take note that cocoa is toxic to your pet, but some brands use high heat remove the toxic compounds. Always check your bag to make sure your brand is safe for your pooch.

Compost
It doesn’t get more natural than this. If you happen to do your own composting, you’ve already got an inexpensive and nutritious mulch to greatly enrich your soil for about a year before needing replacement. Whether you use your own compost or obtain it from another source, keep in mind that compost should be turned–that means it’s been heated to kill off potential weed seeds and diseases.

Pine Straw
Here’s an easy option with tons of bang for its buck. Fresh pine straw adds curb appeal to most any property with its terracotta color. Anecdotally, pine straw is believed to help hamper slugs which would otherwise cause trouble for your perennials. Pine straw is an economical choice that typically lasts one to two years before requiring replacement.

This is a great time to start looking ahead to the landscape improvements you wish to make for your property this year. Remember, U.S. Lawns - Franklin offers year round professional care to not only maintain property curb appeal, but greatly enhance it as well. Anything your business needs–from winter ice management to warm weather irrigation systems and more. Contact us today to request your free proposal.