Mulch is a popular, attractive, and affordable garden detail designed to keep weeds at bay and protect garden beds. There are many different types of mulch, which can make it a little overwhelming when choosing the best one for your landscaping project. Here we offer a complete overview of which types of mulch are best for landscaping and everything you need to know when using it.

Different Types of Mulch

The different types of mulch each have their own benefits and recommended uses. There are completely natural types of mulch for flower beds such as cedar mulch and pine mulch, as well as mulches designed for a particular look, such as red-dyed mulch and black-dyed mulch. When choosing what type of mulch is best for landscaping, you can consider the following options:

Pine and Cedar Mulch

This is the best type of mulch if you want a 100% natural product for your garden beds. It is attractive, yet blends into flower beds without making too much of a statement. One of the reasons we recommend this type of mulch over pine or cedar chips is that it is shredded and tends to stay in place better than the larger pieces found in chip-style mulch. So this is also your better choice if you are gardening in a sloped area.

Red and Black Dyed Mulch

If you want to make more impact in the design of your garden beds, this is the best type of mulch. The colour draws more attention to your garden beds, creating a lovely accent. Another benefit of dyed mulch is that it holds its colour longer, so you might find you don’t need to replace it or top it up as often as you would with basic shredded mulches. Instead, you can just update it when needed to make up for fading or volume loss over the winter months.

Economy Mulches

If you are adding mulch for practical purposes, the best type of mulch is an economy mix. These mulches are a little chunkier than the shredded mixes, but not so large that they will shift as much as chips and nuggets.

Stone and Rocks

This is the best type of mulch if you want something more permanent. Stone is an option when you want something decorative. Larger stones like river rock can provide an excellent accent and filler if you don’t want to fuss over lawn or plants. It is very low maintenance.

Selecting The Best Type of Mulch

You can easily create the look you want with so many options available. However, you also must consider what you want from your mulch.

When you choose the natural wood mulches, they eventually decompose, which can help improve your soil. However, they are also higher maintenance as they need to be replaced more often. On the other hand, dyed mulches are less maintenance because they won’t fade or break down as quickly. However, some gardeners don’t like the idea of placing dyed mulch in their gardens in case they aren’t as healthy for the soil.

A good rule of thumb to help narrow down your choices is that if your garden is set and you don’t plan to do much more planting or moving plants around, stone, or dyed mulch is best. However, if you do like to mix things up a lot, using organic mulches makes more sense. If you want to use mulch as a filler, or decorative accent stone is always the winner.

Are you looking for help in selecting the perfect mulch for your space? Our team at Grand River Natural Stone would be happy to help. Give us a call today.

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How Much Mulch Do You Need?

Now that you have a better idea of which mulch to choose, your next question is probably how much mulch do I need? This is an important question because you don’t want to blow your budget on too much mulch, but don’t want to apply it too sparingly and find it doesn’t do its job. The good news is you can use a mulch calculator. A mulch area calculator just needs a few measurements to determine the square footage of your garden bed using these steps:

Find the Square Footage

For squares/rectangular gardens you simply measure the width and length and multiply them to get the square footage. For circular gardens, you want to hit the center of the bed and measure to the edge. Multiply that number by itself. So if the measurement is 8 ft, you multiple 8 x 8.

Consider the Depth

You also need to consider how deep you want your mulch. A simple rule we recommend is that for trees and shrubs you’ll need three to four inches, and for plants, including vegetables you’ll need from one to three.

Bulk Measurements

When ordering in bulk, you order in yards. So how much is a yard of mulch? Each yard is 27 cubic feet. And how much does a yard of mulch cover? One cubic yard of mulch covers a 324-square-foot area an inch deep. To come up with your bulk measurement, you multiply square footage by the number of inches and then divide that by 324 to calculate your cubic yardage.

Using a mulch coverage calculator will help make sure you order the right amount.

How and When to Lay Mulch

With your order calculated and your mulch delivery in your yard, it’s time to get down to business. Knowing when to use mulch and how to apply mulch to flower beds will ensure you see the best results for your efforts. Here are some basic steps for mulching:

How Deep Should You Spread Mulch?

There was a reason we included how thick you spread mulch when calculating how much you’ll need. If you apply it too thinly, it won’t shade your plant’s roots on steamy hot days, stop weeds from finding a place to root, and help prevent moisture in your soil from evaporating. If it’s too thick, it can lead to breathing issues for the soil, and also attract garden pests. The ideal thickness is one to three inches for plants and three to four inches for shrubs and trees.

When Is The Best Time To Mulch Your Garden?

In theory, there isn’t a specific time to add mulch to flower beds. You can top up mulch any time of year it looks a little sparse, and you can also apply mulch whenever you create new garden beds.

When to Mulch for Winter

Since we live in an area where the cold freezes the soil, it is best to apply mulch in the fall. However, wait until the ground freezes before you apply it. If you are wondering when it is too late to mulch, the answer is, when it snows. This just makes it impossible to mulch, so get your mulching done in the fall or early winter as soon as the ground is frozen.

How to Mulch Plants

Your plants need to have a few inches of space of free soil to reduce the risk for rot while also preventing rodents from burrowing under the mulch and chomping at the roots.

What About Mulching Trees and Shrubs?

You might have noticed neighbours have mulched their trees or shrubs as a decorative touch. Mulch is decorative; however, it is also an excellent way to protect your trees. It provides a nice border that keeps your mowers and trimmers away from the trunk. The proper way to apply mulch is to get it to spread evenly without going above 4 inches. Remember to never pile it high over the trunk as this can cause diseases and attract pests.

Are you looking to purchase mulch for your landscaping needs? We have just what you need. Shop our online store today or give our team a call.

How to Maintain Mulch

Last but not least, you’ll need to know how to maintain mulch. Your mulch maintenance will depend on the type of mulch you choose. As mentioned, the dyed mulches and stone will be more maintenance-free than your organic mulches. However, there are still some tips you can use to keep your mulch working hard:

How To Maintain Mulch Beds

Maintaining mulch beds requires a few steps:

Keep An Eye on Colour: If you used dyed mulch, it would take longer to fade than organic mulches. However, it will start to lose its colour after a few years. When you notice your mulch colour has faded you can add a fresh thin layer of mulch as long as you don’t notice any of the following issues:

• The mulch is quite damp even though the weather has been dry
• The mulch shows signs of rotting
• The layer is quite thick

If you have mulch with any of these issues, you’ll actually need to remove it and replace it. When it’s in good condition, be sure to just add enough to refresh the colour keeping in mind our guidelines for mulch depth.

Weed Upkeep: Although your mulch will help defend your garden beds from weeds, there is still a chance they’ll find a way to root. If you are noticing more weeds, it could be a sign your mulch is too thin. Remove the weeds, including the roots and check the depth of your mulch. If it’s less than an inch deep, add a new layer to top it up to reach two to three inches.

Turn Your Mulch: Old mulch needs to be turned and mixed to break up clumps. When it becomes too compact it can interfere with drainage and light. Use a rake to mix it up or even your hands wearing gloves. Be sure to avoid pushing the mulch too close to plants and if it seems thin add a new layer.

Keep Topping It Up: Thin mulch is a recurring theme for all these tips. You want to pay attention to depth and top your mulch up when it seems thin. Doing this twice a year in the mid to late spring and late fall will help keep the layer ideal. In the spring if you notice any of the issues mentioned for dyed mulch, instead of a top-up you’ll need to remove the old mulch and replace it.

How To Store Mulch

Whether you bought your mulch in bulk or bagged, your goal is to keep it dry. The best way to store mulch long-term is to spread it evenly on a dry tarp and then cover it with another tarp. Find a dry spot to lay it and make sure the outer edges of the tarp are loose, so the mulch gets air circulation to reduce moisture. This will help prevent fungal growth.

Shop For Different Types of Mulch Today

Are you looking to purchase mulch and transform your yard into your dream space? Our team at Grand River Natural Stone would be happy to help. Give us a call today.

The post Mulch 101: Everything You Need to Know is Right Here appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

The Impact of Limestone Rocks on Soil Health 

Limestone is a commonly used decorative rock in landscaping. It primarily consists of calcium carbonate, which can gradually dissolve into the soil with rain and time. This, in turn, raises the pH level in a process known as liming, which makes the soil more alkaline (aka less acidic).  

While this can benefit plants that prefer alkaline conditions, such as lavender and lilac, it can be detrimental to acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons. Gardeners using limestone should regularly test their soil pH and adjust it accordingly to ensure their plants remain healthy. 

The Effects of Granite Rocks on Soil Nutrients 

Granite boulders are another popular decorative choice. Unlike limestone, granite is composed of minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica, which have a minimal effect on soil pH. However, as granite weathers, it can release trace amounts of nutrients like potassium into the soil, potentially benefiting plant growth. While the nutrient release from granite is typically slow and minor, it’s still a factor worth considering when selecting landscaping materials. 

How Slate Rocks Influence Soil Moisture and Temperature 

Slate rocks are often chosen for their sleek, modern appearance in garden designs. One significant impact of slate is its ability to affect soil moisture and temperature. Slate has a high thermal mass, meaning it can absorb and retain heat, which can help warm the soil in cooler climates. Additionally, slate can create a moisture barrier, reducing evaporation and helping maintain soil hydration. However, gardeners need to ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm plant roots. 

Sandstone and Soil Erosion Control 

Sandstone rocks, with their natural, earthy tones, are favoured for creating a rustic look in gardens. Sandstone is relatively soft and can break down over time, adding fine particles to the soil. This process can help improve soil structure and reduce erosion.  

However, sandstone’s contribution to soil health is minimal compared to more nutrient-rich rocks. Plus, some plants may prefer less sandy soil. Gardeners should consider supplementing with organic matter to enhance soil fertility when using sandstone in their landscaping. 

A Summary of Stone Types and Their Impact on Soil Health 

The type of landscaping rocks you choose for your garden can have significant effects on your soil health. These effects are largely determined by the stones’ mineral composition, which influences soil pH, nutrient availability, moisture retention, and temperature regulation. Here’s a closer look at some common types of stones and how they impact soil health: 

1. Carbonate Rocks 

• Examples: Limestone, Marble, Travertine 
• Composition: Primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). 
• Impact: Raises soil pH by neutralizing acidity, which is beneficial for plants preferring alkaline conditions. Requires monitoring for acid-loving plants. 

2. Silicate Rocks 

• Examples: Granite, Quartzite, Basalt 
• Composition: Contains minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica. 
• Impact: Generally neutral effect on soil pH. Weathering releases trace nutrients such as potassium, which can benefit plant growth over time. 

3. Metamorphic Rocks 

• Examples: Slate, Schist, Gneiss 
• Composition: Formed from shale and other clay-rich rocks, mainly consisting of quartz and mica. 
• Impact: High thermal mass, which helps regulate soil temperature. Can act as a moisture barrier, reducing evaporation and helping maintain soil hydration. 

4. Sedimentary Rocks 

• Examples: Sandstone, Shale, Conglomerate 
• Composition: Made of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments, primarily quartz. 
• Impact: Breaks down over time, adding fine particles to the soil and improving structure. Helps in controlling soil erosion but offers minimal nutrient benefits. 

Glamorize Your Garden with Grand River Natural Stone 

Choosing the right decorative rocks can significantly impact your garden’s soil health. At Grand River Natural Stone, we offer a wide selection of landscaping rocks for every type of garden. Contact us today to transform your outdoor space with high-quality natural stone products. 

The post Did You Know Landscaping Rocks Can Affect Soil Health? Insights for Gardeners appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

Colour Dynamics with Mulch

The colour of the mulch you choose can dramatically affect the overall ambiance of your garden. Here’s how different colours can be utilized:

• Black Mulch: Ideal for modern gardens, black mulch creates a stunning contrast against green plants and bright flowers, making them pop dramatically.
• Red Mulch: This bold choice can enhance the vibrancy of your garden, perfect for areas where you want to draw the eye or accentuate colourful plantings.
• Brown Mulch: Offering a more natural look, brown mulch blends beautifully with the garden, enhancing the green tones of your plants without overpowering them.

Textural Contrast and Unity

Texture is another critical aspect of using mulch in design:

• Fine mulches, such as shredded bark, add a smooth, clean look that is perfect for formal gardens.
• Coarse mulches, like large bark chips, introduce a rustic feel that complements ornamental grasses and perennials, adding depth and interest.

Defining Spaces and Paths

Mulch can define different areas within a garden, such as walkways, borders, or feature sections. It helps create clear visual boundaries that enhance the garden’s layout. For paths, a coarser mulch provides durability and a pleasing crunch underfoot, while finer mulches in garden beds smooth over the soil, giving a neat finish.

Enhancing Plant Visibility

Using mulch as a backdrop can highlight specific plants or features. Light-colored mulch can brighten shady areas and make nearby plants stand out. Conversely, a darker mulch can spotlight lighter-coloured plants and make vibrant blooms shine.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating mulch into your landscape design not only adds aesthetic appeal but also brings a cohesive look to your garden. By selecting the right colour and texture, you can create a stunning outdoor space that reflects your style and complements the natural beauty of your plants.

Find the Garden Supplies You Need at Grand River Natural Stone

Ready to transform your garden? Visit Grand River Natural Stone to explore our extensive range of mulch options and landscaping supplies. With four locations and front-door delivery options, you’re sure to find the perfect products to elevate your outdoor spaces.

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1. Start With a Soil Sample

Selecting the best topsoil for your garden or planting beds will partly depend on what your current soil is like. Bring a soil sample to your landscape supplies store to get their recommendation. Based on the composition of your existing soil, they can make a recommendation on the best topsoil blend to use in your yard. For example, soil with a high clay content may need a topsoil mix with extra sand to improve drainage properties and increase aeration.

To collect a soil sample, don’t dig in just one location. Pick three or four spots within your project area and mix those soils together to get an average soil type. A pint or so of soil is enough to bring to your landscape professional.

2. Test the Soil

How do you know if topsoil from a landscape supplier is good quality? A quick test will give you a general idea. Topsoil should look dark and crumbly and smell almost sweet. Look for earthworms in the topsoil pile; they love good dirt! Pick up a handful of topsoil and squeeze it. It should crumble rather than forming hard blocks. If it is wet, it should not feel slippery and slimy. While this won’t tell you everything about the topsoil, it will help you to rule out a bad topsoil source.

3. Talk to Your Local Soil Provider  

Visit your local garden center or soil supplier to get expert advice on the best types of soil for your gardening needs. Consulting with knowledgeable staff can help you understand the specific requirements for various plants, as well as the benefits of different soil mixtures. Additionally, they can provide recommendations on organic options and amendments that can enhance soil quality. By engaging in a conversation with your local soil provider, you can ensure that you select the right materials to promote healthy growth and vibrant plants in your garden. 

4. When in Doubt, USE Triple Mix Topsoil

Triple Mix is a topsoil blend that has the best of everything. It includes topsoil, peat moss and compost. A good quality topsoil is used as the main ingredient. Peat moss is added to help with water holding capacity, releasing moisture slowly over time. It also improves aeration and keeps soils from becoming too heavy and waterlogged. Peat moss helps to retain nutrients so they don’t leach out of the soil.

Compost also improves soil quality while adding organic matter and additional nutrients to the triple mix blend. Together with peat moss, it gives the soil a lighter feel than regular topsoil. The triple mix topsoil is thoroughly blended and screened so it is easy to work with in your garden or yard.

Uses for Triple Mix

Triple mix and premium topsoil blends are good choices for both ornamental and vegetable garden planting purposes. Triple mix is also excellent to use for topdressing your lawn in the spring. As a nutrient rich material, it reduces the need for synthetic or other fertilizers while keeping plants happy with all they need to grow and thrive. Based on a soil sample, your landscape supplier can recommend how much triple mix to add to the existing soil for your landscape project.

Choose the Best Topsoil Mix at Grand River Natural Stone

Remember that the most important part of your garden is underground. Invest in good quality topsoil; your plants will love you for it.

Stop by one of our locations to evaluate our premium soil or for assistance selecting the right mix for your property.

The post How to Choose the Best Topsoil: Steps, Guide & Expert Recommendations appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

1. Natural Mulch Decomposes

Well, technically, rubber can too. But it takes a very, very long time. Natural mulch will decompose within the year, ensuring your garden gets a steady supply of nutrients during the growing season. Rubber on the other hand, pollutes your soil.

2. Natural Mulch has Nutrients

Piggybacking off our last reason, natural mulch actually nourishes your garden. There is no nutritional benefit of adding rubber to your soil, so why bother? Mulch may as well be multi-purpose and, therefore, provide plants with food while also preserving moisture levels and offering protection.

3. Pollution & Fire Hazards

Heavy metals and various inorganic compounds (including combustible materials) exist in rubber due to the manufacturing processes. Therefore, in addition to not adding any nutrients, rubber also adds pollutants, toxins and fire hazards to your garden, which hurts more than it helps.

4. Natural Mulch Has no Additives

Some organic mulches may have stabilizers and chemical additives, but when you go all-natural, you can rest assured your garden is safe from these.

5. Versatile Uses

Natural mulch can be used in any type of garden. Conversely, rubber mulch is restricted to aesthetic gardens due to its makeup.

Summary

View our infographic to read a summary on why natural mulch is a better option than rubber mulch in five important categories.

There you have it. Natural wood mulch is safer, prettier and more versatile than rubber mulch. Having the right mulch can go a long way towards making your garden long-lasting and beautiful too.

Shop our 2024 Mulch Collection Today

At Grand River Natural Stone we exclusively carry natural mulch because we believe it’s a superior product which delivers great results for homeowners and contractors. For all you mulching questions and needs, feel free to contact us today. We have the products and expertise to help you make the best decision for your garden or landscaping.

Related Topics:

• How To Buy Good Quality Mulch & When Is The Best Time To Buy It 
• Should You Mulch in the Fall?
  
• Why It’s Important to Mulch One Last Time Before Winter Arrives

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A Guide to Mulch Types for Vegetable Gardens 

When growing food, it’s important to find safe and effective mulches. This way you, you can ensure no unsafe toxins are leaching into your soil and that your veggie plants are getting all the nutrients they need. Let’s explore some top picks: 

• Cedar Mulch: Known for its aromatic qualities, cedar mulch does more than just smell good. It deters pests and decomposes slowly, enriching the soil with organic matter. 
• Pine Straw: Ideal for vegetable gardens, pine straw helps maintain moisture and prevents soil erosion, all while adding a touch of acidity, benefiting certain veggies. 
• Hardwood Mulch: A gardener’s best friend for moisture retention and temperature control. As it breaks down, it feeds your soil, making nutrients readily available for your plants.  

Application Techniques for Optimal Growth 

Applying mulch correctly can significantly impact your garden’s success. A 2–3-inch layer is perfect, enough to benefit the soil and plants but not so much that it suffocates them. Ensure it’s spread evenly around your plants, leaving a small gap around the stem base to prevent moisture buildup and potential rot. 

Balancing Act: Mulch and Soil pH Dynamics 

Understanding the interaction between mulch and soil pH is crucial for vegetable gardens. For example, pine straw can slightly acidify the soil, perfect for acid-loving plants. Knowing the pH preference of your vegetables can guide you in selecting the ideal mulch, ensuring your garden is not only beautiful but balanced. 

Remember, maintenance is key. Refreshing your mulch layer as needed and checking for compaction ensures it continues to protect and nourish your garden throughout the growing season. A well-mulched garden is a happy garden. 

Grow Your Best Garden Yet 

Choosing the right mulch can transform your vegetable garden into a lush, productive oasis. At Grand River Natural Stone, we offer a variety of natural, safe mulch options tailored to your gardening needs. Explore our selection and take the first step towards a more vibrant and fruitful garden today. 

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• What mulch is and its critical role in gardening. 
• The different types of mulch and how to choose the right one for your needs. 
• Practical tips and techniques for mulching effectively.  

So, let’s dive into the world of mulch and answer common questions to explain its wonderful benefits.  

What is Mulch, and Why Is it Essential in Gardening? 

Mulch is a protective layer of material applied to the surface of soil in gardens. It serves several vital functions: conserving soil moisture, improving fertility and health, reducing weed growth, and enhancing the visual appeal of the area. By acting as a blanket for the soil, mulch moderates temperature fluctuations and protects roots from extreme conditions, making it a must-have for various climates. 

What Are the Different Types of Mulch Available for Gardens? 

Gardeners can choose from a variety of mulches, each with unique properties. Organic mulches like shredded bark, pine needles, and leaves decompose over time, enriching the soil with nutrients. Inorganic mulches such as gravel and plastic sheets offer more permanent solutions but don’t improve soil fertility and may have negative environmental impacts. Selecting the right type depends on the specific needs of your plants and the desired aesthetic of your garden. 

Some common types and uses include: 

• Shredded Bark: Ideal for sloped areas. 
• Pine Mulch: Decomposes to add nutrients. 
• Cedar Mulch: Has natural oils that repel insects, and it’s long-lasting. 
• Straw Mulch: Commonly used in vegetable gardens, it’s excellent for seed germination. 
• Rubber Mulch: Made from recycled tires, it’s long-lasting and doesn’t decompose. 
• Stone or Gravel Mulch: Great for permanent landscapes, doesn’t decompose and requires little maintenance. 
• Plastic Mulch: Common in commercial agriculture, it’s effective in warming the soil and retaining moisture. 

How Does Mulch Benefit Plant Health and Soil Quality? 

Mulch benefits plant health and soil quality in several ways. It helps maintain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. By providing a barrier between the soil and the environment, it minimizes soil erosion and nutrient loss. As organic mulches break down, they enrich the soil with essential nutrients, promoting healthier plant growth. In addition, mulch regulates soil temperature, protecting plant roots from extreme heat or cold. 

Can Mulch be Used in Landscape Design? 

It certainly can and often is! Beyond its practical benefits, mulch is an excellent tool in landscape design. It provides a clean, uniform look to garden beds and can be used to create contrast and highlight specific plants or garden features. With a range of colours and textures available, mulch can complement any landscape style, from rustic to modern. 

What Are the Best Practices for Applying Mulch in a Garden? 

When applying mulch, a few best practices ensure its effectiveness:  

1. Apply a layer of mulch that is about 2-3 inches thick around your plants. This thickness is optimal for retaining moisture and suppressing weeds without suffocating the soil. 
2. Be careful to avoid direct contact between the mulch and plant stems. This precaution helps prevent rot and other stem-related diseases. 
3. Ensure that the mulch is spread evenly across the garden bed. An uneven layer can lead to inconsistent moisture retention and growth patterns. 
4. Extend the mulch to the drip line of the plants, which is the outer circumference of the plant’s canopy. This ensures that the entire root area is covered, maximizing the benefits of mulching. 
5. Regularly check and replenish the mulch throughout the growing season. This maintenance is crucial as mulch can decompose or disperse, reducing its effectiveness. 

Need more guidance? Contact our team today for more information on mulch application!

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How Do Organic and Inorganic Mulches Differ in Function and Use? 

Organic mulches, derived from natural materials like wood chips and leaves, decompose over time, improving soil structure and fertility. Inorganic mulches, such as stones or synthetic fabrics, are more durable and provide a permanent solution for weed control and moisture retention. However, they don’t offer the same soil-enhancing benefits as organic options. 

What Are the Benefits of Natural Mulch? 

Natural mulch, typically made from organic materials, offers several benefits. It improves soil health by decomposing and adding nutrients, promotes moisture retention, and supports a balanced ecosystem in the garden. Natural mulch also helps regulate soil temperature and provides a habitat for beneficial insects and microorganisms. 

Are There Specific Mulching Techniques for Vegetable Gardens? 

Vegetable gardens benefit greatly from mulching. Organic mulches like straw or grass clippings are ideal as they break down quickly, adding nutrients to the soil. Mulch should be applied after planting and can help reduce water evaporation, keep soil temperatures stable, and prevent weed growth, leading to healthier and more productive vegetable plants. 

How Often Should Mulch be Replaced or Replenished in a Garden? 

The frequency of replacing or replenishing mulch depends on the type used. Organic mulches decompose and should be checked and replenished annually. Inorganic mulches last longer but may need refreshing to maintain their appearance and functionality. Regularly inspecting your mulch and adding more as needed will keep your garden healthy and attractive. 

Can Mulch Help in Weed Control and Moisture Retention in Garden Beds? 

Yes, mulch is highly effective in controlling weeds and retaining moisture in garden beds. It acts as a barrier, preventing sunlight from reaching weed seeds and thus inhibiting their growth. Mulch also helps to retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering and ensuring that plants have consistent access to the water they need. 

Find the Garden Supplies You Need at Grand River Natural Stone 

Mulch is an essential component of a thriving garden, offering numerous benefits, from soil health improvement to aesthetic enhancements in landscape design. Especially when natural products are used, mulching is a simple yet effective technique to enrich and protect your garden.  

For those seeking quality mulching materials, Grand River Natural Stone offers a wide range of options to suit any gardening need. Explore our collection and take the next step in your gardening journey with confidence and the right resources. If you have any questions, please contact us! 

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In the spring and summer, we use mulch to retain moisture in the soil, keep the weeds at bay and add a beautiful, consistent texture to our landscaping. In the winter, mulch takes on a whole new role in keeping our gardens healthy. Here’s why you should mulch before winter sets in.

Mulch to Regulate Soil Temperature

Once the ground freezes, your garden plants go into a dormant mode where they save energy and wait for the sun to return in the spring. However, the winter sun is intense and can heat up the first few inches of soil by mid-day. This can trick newly planted plants into thinking spring is coming.

They’ll expend energy, but their new shoots will be frozen by nightfall, and they’ll be less healthy or even dead come springtime. The same can happen to bulbs, crowns, and the surface roots of any plant.

One last layer of mulch in the fall will keep the ground from heating under the winter sun. The mulch will insulate the shallow parts of the plants from the heat, so they don’t sense spring is arriving until it really does.

Protect Against Freeze/Thaw Cycles

The warm noon soil presents other disadvantages for plants, giving you reasons to spread mulch in the late fall. Constant thawing and refreezing causes “heaving,” a process where the soil expands, contracts and unsettles the plant’s roots.

When their roots don’t have a proper grip on the soil, plants can slowly be pushed higher up in the soil, exposing their crown and roots to colder temperatures and even, in some cases, to the harsh winter wind. This process can damage and even kill plants.

A layer of mulch makes heaving less likely and ensures that even if the plant’s roots and crown do peek above the soil level, they’ll still be somewhat protected by the mulch.

If you notice some plants have been pushed upwards over the winter, you can always add another inch or so of mulch to protect them.

 Winter Mulch Choices

Now that you understand the value of winter mulch, you may be wondering if you should invest in mulch designed for winter, or if your spring and summertime mulch is enough. The good news is that the same mulch you use throughout the year is perfect for winter too.

Grand River Natural Stone offers several mulch varieties that you can use in the winter:

• Cedar
• Pine
• Economy Mix
• Black Dyed
• Red Dyed

Removing Winter Mulch Once Spring Arrives

Winter mulch plays a crucial role in maintaining soil moisture levels during the colder months, and it should be applied generously enough to effectively keep moisture from evaporating out of the ground. However, as spring approaches, it becomes essential to allow rainwater to penetrate the soil once again. Therefore, it is advisable to remove your winter mulch at the end of the winter season. If you prefer not to remove it entirely, you can also break up any clumps that may have formed due to ice and wind. This will ensure that water can easily reach the soil, promoting healthy growth for your plants as they awaken from their winter dormancy and prepare for the growing season ahead.

Contact Us to Find The Supplies You Need

Winter will be here before you know it. Make sure your gardens are protected with fresh mulch from one of our Grand River Natural Stone locations. See what we have to offer online today!

Related Topics:

• Should You Mulch in the Fall?
• 5 Reasons Why Natural Mulch is Better Than Rubber Mulch
• When To Buy Topsoil & Mulch, and How To Know Yours Is Good

The post Why It’s Important to Mulch One Last Time Before Winter Arrives appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

If you’re new to mulching, you may wonder if you should mulch in the fall. While you may think that adding mulch to your garden beds or landscape seems counterproductive for the cooler seasons, laying mulch in the fall is actually the most beneficial in Canadian climates as it provides frost and winter protection for plants.

We’ll outline some of the biggest pros and cons of fall mulching below, as well as how to mulch before winter, to help you decide whether you’d like to add this task to your fall landscaping maintenance checklist.

Pros and Cons of Mulching in the Fall

The advantages of laying mulch in the fall are plentiful:

• It insulates the soil to help plants make it through our harsh winters
• Plant roots and bulbs react less to temperature swings that happen during winter
• Putting down mulch during the cooler fall months is a lot easier than doing it in hotter weather
• Most people cut back perennials for winter anyways, so you will have more space to lay the mulch

 However, there are some disadvantages of choosing to mulch in the fall: 

• If you don’t like cutting back perennials, laying the mulch may be a hassle
• If self-sowers are a big part of your various plantings, a fresh layer of mulch could possibly interfere with springtime seed germination
• Fall has less daylight, which means you may have to squeeze the job in on a weekend, which could cut into other activities[1]
• If snow falls before you get a chance to lay the mulch, you may end up with a big, snowy mulch pile on your property.

As long as you start early and germinate your seeds elsewhere, mulching plants for winter is a wise idea. The benefits to their long-term health and winter-resistance are just too good to pass up. So, how do you do it?

Tips to Lay Mulch in Fall

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your fall mulching:

• Mulch type: Choose a quality mulch that will look great in your garden and last through the winter. If you’re considering organic mulch, ensure that it is treated prior to distributing. Regardless of which mulch you choose, a depth of 3-4 inches of mulch in your designated area will be sufficient. You can pick from our mulch catalogue the type you prefer: black, pine, cedar, red or economy mulch.
• Prepare beds: Remove all plant debris and pull any weeds that may still be around. Give your soil a good stir with either a rototiller or a hard rake.
• Start before frost: In southern Ontario, your mulching should be done in early October, as mid-October can bring early frost.
• Tree mulch: Don’t suffocate a tree with mulch. Remember, it’s trunk will get bigger. Pile the mulch a few inches from the trunk to make a “donut” as opposed to piling it up against the tree trunk which creates a “volcano” (the moisture from this can soften the bark and weaken it to pests and harsh weather).[1]

Now that you know whether or not you should mulch in the fall and a few tips on how to get started, make sure to contact the experts at Grand River Natural Stone for more information and to order your fall mulch today.

Related Topics:

• Should You Mulch in the Fall?
• 5 Reasons Why Natural Mulch is Better Than Rubber Mulch
• When To Buy Topsoil & Mulch, and How To Know Yours Is Good

[1] Beaulieu, David. How to Mulch Your Garden in Fall. The Spruce. June 26, 2019. Available online https://www.thespruce.com/should-i-mulch-my-garden-in-fall-2130801.

[1] Martens Forney, Julie. Forward, Mulch! DIY Network. Available online https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/gardening/fall-mulch.

The post Should You Mulch in the Fall? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

Good quality topsoil and mulch are among the most important factors contributing to a healthy garden.

For healthy growth, you have to feed your plants and protect them from unwelcoming conditions.

Topsoil and mulch (along with water and sunlight) take care of the feeding.

So how do you know the topsoil and mulch combo your landscape supply store offers is good for your greenery?

Learn what makes a good topsoil and mulch team so you can ask the right questions from your supplier.

Topsoil, literally the top soil

Topsoil is full of vitamins, nutrients and organisms that help plants grow strong and thrive. Good topsoil is teeming with it all.

Generally, all this good stuff rests in the top several inches of soil. So good quality topsoil comes from the most productive part of soil, the top.

Inside your rich topsoil, you will find:

• Microorganisms
• Minerals
• Insects
• Earthworms
• Organics
• Water
• Air pockets

Together, these ingredients keep the soil healthy and feed your plants.

How to spot good quality topsoil

Spotting good quality topsoil for your landscaping projects is easy if you know what to look for.

• Colour: Excellent topsoil should be dark brown or black. Dark colours mean the soil is rich in organic matter.
• Odour: Fresh topsoil should have a sweet smell to it. If it smells old, musky and stale, it’s past its prime. That’s the smell of decaying organics.
• Texture: Grab a handful of topsoil and squeeze it into a ball. When you open up your hand, the soil should easily crumble apart. You don’t want to create a mud ball.
• Fragments: If you easily see big stones, weeds or unwanted seeds in your topsoil, stay away.

When you feel good about your topsoil, move on to the mulch you use to finish your garden.

Natural mulch or rubber mulch?

Cover your topsoil in a layer of mulch to reduce soil erosion, lock in moisture and nutrients, and grow your plants faster.

You can buy natural or rubber mulch from some landscape suppliers.

We only carry natural mulch because we believe it’s the best choice for homeowners and landscapers building a garden in harmony with nature.

What do you get with natural mulch?

• It contributes to the long term health of your soil and plants. Unlike rubber mulch, natural mulch decomposes over time, lending its nutrients to the soil below. This means you have to replace natural mulch regularly (every couple years is good), but your plants will grow more vigorously year after year.
• Your environmental impact is lower than if you used rubber mulch. Petroleum is a main component of rubber mulch, and heavy metals can leach into the environment. Natural mulch is a renewable, sustainable product.
• The earthy appearance you want in a garden. Natural mulch decomposes and fades over time. Some homeowners prefer non-fading rubber mulch. We prefer shredded bark mulch (natural mulch) because it looks less manufactured and ages like it would in nature.
• Your organic veggie garden benefits as much from natural mulch as your flower beds, shrubs and trees. It’s a versatile product that enhances every outdoor planting space.

Now is a great time to buy mulch and topsoil for your summer garden. There’s lots of time for growing and admiring the colours, birds, bees, pesky squirrels and more in your private oasis.

Visit your nearest Grand River Stone location to stock up on your mulch and topsoil today.

The post When to buy topsoil and mulch, and how to know yours is good appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.