When spring rolls around, thoughts quickly turn to landscape projects. The first product on everyone’s list? Mulch. Mulch has many benefits including keeping soil moist, improving soil health, and keeping weeds under control. If you have questions about mulch, we’ve got answers.
How is mulch made?
Mulch typically falls into two categories: organic and synthetic. Organic mulches include everything from wood chips to pine straw to manure—they’re “made” by nature! Synthetic mulches are made from rubber or plastics manufactured in a factory.
At Irvine, our mulch is made from 100% recycled wood materials. Even our colored mulch uses environmentally-friendly materials instead of synthetic dyes.
Are mulch and compost the same?
Compost is organic matter added to soil to improve its quality. While mulch can also improve soil, its main function is to cover the surface of the soil.
What does it mean when mulch turns white?
Mulch turns white when it’s infected with a fungi called slime mold which isn’t harmful, just unsightly. Slime mold thrives on moisture and temperature changes. Raking it can help expose it to air which may dry it out. You should also water plants in the morning in the summer before the sun has a chance to heat up the wet mulch.
Will mulch help with mud?
Yes! Adding mulch to muddy spots will help absorb water. It also means the wood and other organic matter can really get down deep and add nutrients to the soil. It’s a cost-effective method and requires minimal to no prep. A giant patch of mulch isn’t the ideal solution if your annoying mud pit is right in the middle of your yard, of course. But it’s great for perimeters or muddy spots you may want to turn into a garden in the future.
Are mulch rings good for trees?
Yes, if they’re done correctly using wood mulch. Adding a ring of wood mulch around a tree trunk add a protective layer between the grass and the trunk, which keeps it safe from lawnmower nicks. Additionally, research shows that when applied correctly, a mulch ring can almost double a tree’s growth rate.
Your mulch layer around your tree should be between 2 and 4 inches thick and continue out between 3 and 6 feet around the base of the tree. Do not pile a bunch of mulch around the trunk. Instead, begin mulching about 3 to 6 inches away from it.
Does mulch attract termites?
It can, but not in the way you’re thinking. The wood itself isn’t appealing to termites, but the environment it can create is. The deeper a layer of mulch is, the more warmth and moisture it creates. That combination can be irresistible to termites and other critters. It’s best to keep layers of mulch spread near your house to three inches or less.
