Saturday, April 26, 2008

Landscape Mulch types - which bed dressing is right for you?

Landscape mulch is a great way to make the yard look finished. Mulching is also a solution to problems with drought, weeds, and grounds maintenance issues. Having a landscaping company install (spread) the right type of mulch in your yard is critical to the overall outcome.

There are several different kinds of landscape supplies that you can use to mulch your beds, shrubberies, areas around trees, and playground areas. One of my favorite mulches is cedar mulch. Cedar is an aromatic wood that is a natural repellant to bugs. The beautiful appearance of cedar coupled with its functional qualities makes this a great bed dressing choice for near the house or in playground areas. Another favorite is pine bark mulch which is cheap, readily available, and rich looking. Hardwood mulches are popular as well. Hardwood mulch comes in natural color, black, red, and brown. Cypress is commonly used as a colored mulch.

The purpose of mulch is three fold. It will retain moisture in your flower and shrub beds to help when lack of rainfall is a problem. The right kind of mulch and color of mulch can increase the value of your home by a significant percentage. A good thick layer will greatly reduce the need for weed maintenance. The aesthetic value, vegetation conrol, and moisture retaining quality make mulching a worthwhile upgrade to your landscape.

Submitted by Ashley Brooks, Busy Bee Lawn Care, Columbia S.C. 803)331-5323