Bulk mulch is a must-have for any gardening project. It protects plants’ root systems, retains moisture, and inhibits weed growth. If you’re working on a landscaping project, you’ll have to make the choice between wood and stone mulch—both of which are beautiful and have their advantages and downsides. Learn more about these choices below to find the right one for your landscaping project.

Wooden Mulch

Wood mulch is made from shredded bark, often from trees like cedar, cypress, and pine, which gives the mulch a pleasant odor. It’s a cost-efficient option that’s easy to install, even for casual gardeners. It’s also excellent at retaining water, which can help your plants stay green even during dry spells. The color choices for bark mulch are limited to shades of brown, black, and red. Because bark mulch is biodegradable, it will need to be replaced at least every other year—however, the old mulch will continue to decompose, providing nutrients for your plants.

Gravel Mulch

This option covers a wide range of decorative gravel sizes, from larger lava rock and quartz pebbles to small pea gravel. While the initial cost for gravel ground cover is much more than mulch, you’ll only spend that money once—gravel mulch can last a lifetime with relatively little upkeep. However, more site preparation is necessary, including edge and weed barrier installation. Gravel also doesn’t retain moisture like bark mulch can, so wood may be a wiser choice if you’re worried about water efficiency.

You can find several varieties of high-quality bulk mulch at Affordable Landscape Supplies in Burlington, KY. With seven types of wood mulch, 52 types of gravel, and same-day delivery throughout Boone and Kenton counties, they will make your next landscaping project easier. Learn more about their inventory online, or call (859) 586-9142 to schedule a mulch delivery.