The Benefits of Using Mulch

Mulch is an important landscape material. A freshly mulched garden looks stunning. However, mulching gardens and other outdoor spaces is done for more than decorative purposes. Whether you want to control weed growth or improve soil moisture – mulch is essential. What is mulch? Mulch is the name given to material, such as bark, compost, wood chips, plant debris and decaying leaves, that is spread around or over plants to insulate and enrich the soil. Mulch protects bare soil and plants from erosion during winter, and helps the soil lock in moisture during summer. Why is mulching important? There are many benefits associated with mulching gardens, the main benefits include: - Retain moisture in the soil - Suppress weed growth - Retain soil temperature - Improve soil structure and drainage - Prevent frost heaving in winter - Enhance the growth of plants - Improve the look of garden beds Where to buy mulch? At Mainland Aggregates, we supply a selection of biodegradable garden mulch. This includes mulch for footpaths, hard landscaping and green roofs, such as cockle shell mulch, and mulch to act as weed suppression and moisture retention, such as premium pine bark and landscape bark. Play bark can also be supplied. This bark has been tested to BSEN4790:1978 and BSEN1177:2008 and is suitable for play areas. Are mulch and compost the same? Mulch and compost are not the same. Compost is the result of decomposing organic matter, including kitchen scraps, leaves, garden waste and manure. Whilst mulch is laid on top of the soil, compost is mixed into the soil. Compost is also sometimes referred to as a fertilizer. To aid plant growth and soil conditioning, we supply rotted horse manure. Are mulch and wood chips the same? Wood chips might seem similar to bark mulch, however, these are different garden materials. Wood chips are created from shredding the interior part of trees whilst bark mulch is created by chipping away tree bark. Wood chips are also bigger and bulkier than mulch bark. Are mulch and bark the same? Bark is one of the many materials that can be included in organic mulches. When used as mulch, bark helps retain soil moisture, regulates the temperature of the soil, suppresses weed growth and enhances soil fertility. This type of mulch will naturally decompose and release a selection of nutrients and organic matter to enrich the soil. How to apply mulch? It is recommended to use mulch around spring and autumn. It is important to prepare the soil before layering mulch on the surface of the soil. Preparation includes removing weeds, raking the surface of the soil and watering the soil. Once this has been done, mulch can be spread around spring bulbs, fruit trees and bushes, herbaceous perennials and under hedges. Note: Do not layer an excessive amount of mulch as this can prevent plants and bulbs from growing. Whether you are searching for bark mulch, garden mulch, organic mulch or simply for “mulch for garden” – look no further than Mainland Aggregates. We supply a wide selection of mulch available in bulk bags with nationwide delivery. Contact us today for more information.