While you've probably heard the word mulch before, especially if you are interested in gardening, you might want a more in-depth look at these low-maintenance soil improvers. As there are so many variations to mulch, you may also be wondering what type of mulch for gardening is the best choice for you.
That's why we've put together a detailed yet easy-to-follow guide. In this guide, we answer some frequently asked questions, as well as discuss the different types of mulch and which might be the best for your garden. So, if you're a beginner in this area, take a look at our guide to mulching so that you can get started on your new garden project.
What is mulch in gardening?
Mulch refers to the material used to cover the top of the soil when gardening. This material may often be organic in nature and can range from wood chip mulch or tree bark, straw, compost, leaves, grass, and more. However, inorganic materials such as gravel, rubber, and plastic are also commonly used.
Why use mulch in the garden?
Mulching your garden means less maintenance and time saved in the long run. There are many benefits which include improving soil quality with nutrients for your plants, regulating soil temperature, retaining soil moisture, and suppressing the growth of weeds. It can also be used for aesthetic purposes, like decorating your garden borders and flower beds and keeping your garden looking tidy.
When should I mulch the garden?
You should think about mulching your garden twice a year, especially during the spring and autumn seasons. During spring, annual weeds will not have started to grow yet and in autumn, plants will begin to die back. It's worth noting that mulch should be applied after any seedlings are properly established, rather than on top of newly planted seeds.
How to mulch the garden?
When it comes to applying the mulch, it's a fairly simple task. However, you'll also want to prepare your soil beforehand in order to ensure a healthy base to apply your mulch. Here's a guide on how to apply mulch to your garden.
1) First, you'll want to remove any weeds from the site beforehand. The last thing you want is unsightly weeds from competing with your plants. Using your hands or a garden trowel, remove any weeds from the root.
2) Then, make sure that you loosen any hardened areas of soil. Turning the soil or breaking it down will mean that your soil is more receptive to moisture.
3) After this, you'll want to dampen the soil with a bit of water. Not only will this allow the mulch to stay in place, but it'll also provide the nutrients that your plants will need to thrive.
4) Spread the mulch out evenly, taking care to apply a layer that's around two to three inches thick. Around the base of each plant, leave about an inch for every plant or tree to breathe.
5) If your mulch of choice is organic, it isn't necessary to completely strip the mulch each time as it will break down on its own. While you should keep an eye on levels, it should only really need replenishing once or twice a year.
6) If your mulch of choice is inorganic, it should last much longer than organic mulch. It will not need stripping or replenishing as it doesn't decompose, or decomposes at a slower rate than organic choices.
What is the best mulch to use in the garden?
There are lots to consider when you're choosing the best mulch to use in your garden, as there are so many types available. The main thing to consider is whether you're wanting to go for organic or inorganic, and there are advantages and disadvantages for each.
Organic types of mulch
This type of mulch refers to anything that was once living matter, so this type is often naturally biodegradable within the soil. It will retain water well, providing your soil beds with so many nutrients that are then absorbed by your plants.
It's fairly easy to make your own organic mulch from shredded materials around your garden such as leaves or grass. Also, it can actually improve the quality of your soil, so a good option for those looking for a natural alternative.
However, due to the fact it comes from a natural source, this means it decomposes making it a shorter-term option. It may also attract insects, some of which are good for the ecosystem of your garden, but others that aren't. This is something to keep an eye on regularly. For this reason, it will need to be replaced much more often than its inorganic alternative, which may cost more in the long run.
Wood
Whether it's bark chippings or wood chip mulch, this type of mulch is completely organic. It breaks down easily providing your plants with nutrients retained within the bark. It's a generally inexpensive and popular option, as it can be found in most stores readily prepared and looks attractive in your garden.
Straw
It must be clarified that straw, and not hay, should be used for mulching. This is because hay can sometimes contain seeds that can cause weeds to grow in your garden as well as harmful pesticides. Straw is the leftover stalk from the grain after it's been harvested, therefore you should always look for a pesticide-free straw to add to your beds.
Compost
Whether it's homemade compost or store-bought, this type of mulch is high in nutrients. Particularly if you're opting for homemade, it's an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way of renewing any waste to fertilise your soil. Fruit and vegetable waste, as well as leaves and grass, are a fantastic source of mulch. If you're opting for store-bought compost the likes of aged animal manure may be the best.
Leaf
This option is great for those who have trees in their garden, as fallen leaves or 'leaf mould' can be shredded up to form a layer over the soil. These do decompose a lot quicker than the likes of other sturdier materials such as wood, and you may need a lot of leaves to create a thick layer. However, they provide good insulation for your soil, despite also attracting snails.
Pine needles are a particularly common choice when it comes to leaf mulch and these can also be store-bought. It's said that they have an acidic pH balance, but this has also been disputed as their levels are said to become more neutral as they decompose.
Grass
The benefit of mulching grass is that you're able to make this mulch with a lawn mower very easily. Using the shredded grass you've collected, you can layer this on top of your soil. However, treated grass shouldn't be used for this purpose as the chemicals can interfere with your soil.
Inorganic types of mulch
This type of mulch refers to any other type of material or fabric used to cover your soil. As it's not living matter, it takes much longer to decompose so it's a good choice for low-maintenance gardeners. This method of mulching doesn't need to be replenished, is less likely to attract insects, and is often used decoratively within gardens.
On the other hand, this type of mulch is much more long-term meaning it could become more of a permanent feature in your garden. As it doesn't biodegrade into the soil, if you're wanting to change the look it will take a lot more effort, as you'll have to remove it yourself.
Stone
This can also include gravel, pebbles, and rocks used to cover the soil. It is a low-maintenance option that also looks fantastic on garden borders and flower beds. It adds a neat and tidy appearance to your garden and is generally fairly inexpensive.
Rubber
This comes in the form of rubber chips and can also take a variety of colours. It would be particularly good for areas where grandchildren may play in your garden, as the rubber is soft and can cushion any falls. However, it is quite a costly option and may also contaminate soils with chemicals.
Plastic
Slightly different application to other mulch, this needs to be installed over the top of your soil before you plant your seeds. After installation, simply cut holes into the fabric and plant the seeds. Would be particularly good during colder seasons and for vegetable gardens as plastic allows the retention of heat.
The best mulch for gardening
From our research, we've put together a list of the best mulch for your garden including organic and inorganic options for you to choose from. Here are the best mulches that we could find.
Wood mulch
Best bark chipping mulch for gardening
www.wickes.co.uk
For a decorative, attractive finish for beds and borders, Wickes Bark Chippings are an ideal solution. These brown chips of bark not only provide a clean background for displaying your plants against but also offer excellent weed suppression, moisture retention, and thermal protection for plant roots. The bark mulches also help reduce the spread of fungal diseases on leaves that arises from rain splash.
Review: "Good grade bark. Ideal to winter mulch the garden. Easy to spread. Well packaged. Easy to handle."
Recommended bark chipping mulch for gardening
Floragard pine bark is a natural flooring available in different sieves of super fine, fine, medium, and coarse. It naturally suppresses annoying weed growth, the soil remains evenly moist and the plants need to be watered less often. New plants grow better as it protects plants and their roots from frost, naturally suppresses weed growth, and protects against drying out and erosion. Ideal for sustainable care and beautification of the garden.
Review: "It's a good product. The pieces are a nice size, it smells nice, is clean and has a nice color. I can recommend it and would buy it again. The price is great. You can't get this quality cheaper in the hardware store either. It is delivered so you don't have to haul the heavy bags."
Bulk bark chipping mulch for gardening
www.wickes.co.uk
A mid-dark brown, multi-purpose grade bark. A natural product that will enhance the appearance of landscaping projects. Derived from forestry woodchip, the type of bark is mixed conifer and supplied from sustainable sources. It reduces the need for irrigation and weeding and acts as plant root insulation in cold weather.
Review: "The bark was real quality our garden is looking fantastic now. The colour of the bark is rich brown, it covered a large area. We are pleased with everything."
Best wood chipping mulch for gardening
www.diy.com
Verve's chipped bark locks in vital moisture and keeps weeds at bay, creating the perfect backdrop for happy healthy plants. Also available in a natural colouring, it's ideal for top dressing beds and borders, looks great, and enriches the soil at the same time.
Review: "I bought this red bark to finish the beds in my front garden and to help keep moisture in. It has really given a professional finish to my garden. I have had a lot of comments on how nice it looks. Good quality bark. Not too big and no rubbish in the bags. It has really brightened up the garden. Would definitely recommend."
Bulk wood chipping mulch for gardening
www.hallstonedirect.co.uk
These untreated wood chippings are attractive, long-lasting, and eco-friendly. An attractive alternative to play bark, decorative bark mulches, and aggregates that brighten areas in the garden, these chippings are light golden brown in colour and have a pleasant natural odour.
Review: "Great product, very good quality… looks fantastic on our garden border."
Compost mulch
Best compost mulch for gardening
Ideal for beds, borders, and baskets too, use Miracle-Gro wherever you need a nutritious home for your plants. Fibre Smart technology ensures the optimum air and water balance for the roots to grow strong and healthy, while they reach out for food and water.
Review: "Due to mobility difficulties, it has been very tricky to lift and carry compost bags from a shop counter to my car and then to my front door. With this well priced compost, I was able to get it delivered straight to my door for the same price or better when I needed it. I use this compost, mixed with fertiliser and nutrients for pots, baskets and top soil, basically anything! It is so easy to work with and I have seen great growth with my peonies and roses this year. Highly recommend, especially if you have mobility difficulties."
Recommended compost mulch for gardening
www.wickes.co.uk
Westland Gardener’s Multi Purpose Compost is produced from premium-grade Irish blended peat which has been milled and graded to produce a quality growing media and blended with the correct nutrient and trace element balance to ensure healthy plants, vibrant flowers, and quality fruit.
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Review:** "Really nice compost I used to sprinkle on the lawn as a top dressing. After a few days of heavy rain everything is absorbed. Nice easy to carry size also."
Bulk compost mulch for gardening
www.hallstonedirect.co.uk
Hallstone Compost is a natural, peat-free, multi-purpose compost, suitable for use in containers, pots and baskets, or beds and borders. It can also be used as a mulch or soil improver, as it will add fertility and improve the topsoil structure.
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Review**: "Good quality dark fine compost- very happy with purchase."
Straw mulch
Best straw mulch for gardening
Strulch mulch is a light and easy-to-use garden mulch made from wheat straw for organic gardening. A patented process is used to ‘preserve’ the straw so that it lasts for up to two years and gives an earthy brown colour. Strulch has a neutral pH and can be used throughout the garden on borders, raised beds, around cultivated fruit, and on vegetable plots.
Review: "Absolutely fantastic mulch. Easy to spread on the garden and it dose keep the snails and slugs at bay."
Stone mulch
Best stone mulch for gardening
www.wickes.co.uk
Acting as a weed suppressant, this gravel is ideal for layering on top of borders to keep them looking neat and tidy. With it being a natural product, the colour may vary slightly. However, reviews say the pea shingle gravel has a great colour and the size is fairly uniform.
Review: "Nice size bags of shingle used to create a border around my garden. Looks great."
Recommended stone mulch for gardening
www.wickes.co.uk
Decorative UK-sourced blue slate chippings are ideal for gardens and borders. This beautiful stone changes colour when wet and also increases moisture retention in summer while providing insulation in winter. Additionally, it also helps to suppress weed growth.
Review: "This blue skate is the main base layer for a new small garden arrangement that had become overgrown and messy. Totally renovated the area with a new weed suppressant membrane held down by a beautiful covering of Blue Slate. The slate turns dark when wet adding yet another aspect to the overall garden."
Recommended stone mulch for gardening
www.diy.com
This multicolour decorative stone can be used for decorative pot toppers, rockeries, borders, and general landscaping to aid moisture retention in soil.
Review: "Have used this in raised beds and it looks so good. The colours have enhanced the plants. It will also keep the slugs at bay."
Recommended stone mulch for gardening
www.diy.com
In beautiful pastel pink, this decorative stone can be used for paths, patios, and driveways. Not only does it look the part, but it also helps to keep the weeds at bay while supporting moisture retention in your soil.
Review: "Used these stones as a border between the lawn and patio. Probably the best stones B&Q offer. Looks great especially when wet."
Bulk stone mulch for gardening
www.travisperkins.co.uk
A mixed bag of gravel and shingle, these stones are ideal for landscaping around your garden. Best for covering larger areas such as the borders, the natural colours are sure to compliment your plants and keep your garden looking tidy.
Review: "The man who delivered it was really helpful and very thoughtful. I used it as a cover for around my garden under the trees, low maintenance!"
Rubber mulch
Best rubber mulch for gardening
www.ebay.co.uk
Amongst its many benefits, this product is easy to lay and offers all-year-round use, whether sun, rain, or snow. As well as being weather resistant, it's made from recycled rubber products such as tyres and therefore an environmentally friendly option. This mulch can last anywhere up to ten years making it easy to maintain.
Plastic mulch
Best plastic mulch for gardening
www.wickes.co.uk
Apollo heavy-duty weed control fabric is ideal for use on rough ground and under patios, pathways, decking, and large areas of decorative aggregates. It provides superior puncture resistance and weed suppression, while still allowing easy passage of water, air, and nutrients.
Review: "Re-designing my small garden and this is going underneath the stone chippings. Looks good so far and it's a good price for a roll of quality weed control fabric."
Recommended plastic mulch for gardening
www.diy.com
Effectively suppresses and controls weed growth. A heavy-duty weed control fabric makes it suitable for use in driveways as well. Allows water to drain through to your soil, whilst still offering outstanding weed suppression.
Review: "Very happy with this product. Stronger than other type I was using. Would use again."
Bulk plastic mulch for gardening
Agfabric weed control fabric helps with drainage and can be used when landscaping your garden. It's widely used as a weed prevention material on borders or vegetable crops. It provides protection for your soil from weeds while still performing well with drainage.
Review: "This is perfect for mulching between rows or under crops in the vegetable garden. It blocks the weeds, allows the rain through, stands up to foot traffic, doesn't break down in the weather and can be re-used the next year."
Our verdict: The best mulch for gardening
So, which is better? Organic or inorganic? Well, that all depends on your own individual needs and what suits your garden best. Here's our verdict on the best mulch for gardening.
The best organic mulch
In our opinion, the best organic mulch would have to be the Wickes Bark Chippings. This is due to the fact that it's a highly affordable product with thousands of positive reviews, and it also looks fantastic in your garden.
The best inorganic mulch
While the best inorganic mulch for gardening would have to be the Tarmac 10mm Gravel Pea Shingle Major Bag from Wickes. Another highly affordable product with the best ratings of all of the inorganic mulch that we could find.
How to tutorials: Mulch for gardening
Below are some of our favourite videos from YouTube, with how to tutorials and general advice on mulch. With these videos, you'll get some ideas for gardening when it comes to applying mulch to your own garden.