Mulch plays a vital part in many landscaping and lawn maintenance plans, and comes in organic and inorganic forms. Organic mulch includes wood chips, bark, grass clippings, and compost, while inorganic options include pulverized rubber, lava rocks, and crusher dust. Here are a few of the benefits mulching provides to enjoy a healthy, beautiful property.

5 Reasons to Add Mulch to Your Landscaping

1. Retains Moisture

Use mulch to conserve water in your soil. Inorganic mulch is especially helpful during periods of drought because it prevents or at least limits moisture loss to reduce daily watering and keep your utility bills reasonable. Plants and trees will subsequently stay healthy longer when rain isn’t in the forecast.

2. Limits Weeds

Control weed growth in your garden bed by mulching. The landscaping product creates a barrier between the sun and soil, so weeds do not receive the nutrients they need to thrive. This allows wanted plants, herbs, and flowers to flourish without the risk of overcrowding.

3. Reduces Pest Infestations

Work with mulch to deal with garden pests. Cedar, pinewood, and cypress chips feature natural oils repulsive to numerous insects and arachnids, including ticks, gnats, and fleas. Keep in mind that excessive mulch applications or using the wrong product can invite insects to your property, so do some research to ensure you select the right option to keep pests out.

4. Controls Soil Erosion

Add mulch to sloped areas or any other landscaping sections that are prone to runoff and erosion. The lawn maintenance product helps hold soil in place by dampening rain’s impact on the ground. Use it to avoid spending extra money on soil at your local landscaping center, especially if your region is experiencing heavy rain.

5. Encourages Earthworm Activity

Invite earthworms to your garden with organic mulch. The creatures consume dead roots, grass, and other plant debris to provide your property with more nutrient-rich soil through their waste. Their waste also supports soil structure by keeping particles together, while the worms themselves improve soil drainage with burrowing and channeling activities. 

Schedule professional mulch application with the team at Buckeye Lawn and Landscaping/Oheil Irrigation Company to enjoy these fantastic benefits. The family-owned company has served Dayton and the rest of southwest Ohio since 1981, providing landscaping and hardscaping solutions, as well as lawn care. Call (937) 432-9911 today to make an appointment, or learn more about landscaping and other services online.