Any homeowner will agree that caring for yards can be a big project depending on your lawn’s size. One of the best ways to improve your lawn is by adding mulch.
What is mulching? Mulching refers to adding a material (mulch), either organic or inorganic, as a layer over the soil to protect it. Mulch can be made from a variety of materials.
Different Types of Mulch
Organic mulch, in most cases, is the most beneficial. Some organic mulches include:
- Wood chip mulch
- Grass clippings
- Shredded leaves
- Pine needles
Inorganic mulch includes:
- Black plastic, synthetic mulch
- Silver plastic, synthetic mulch
- Crushed stone/gravel
- Crushed brick chips
Both types of mulch provide your lawn with protection. But many of the benefits we will address come mainly by using different kinds of organic mulch.
Benefits of Adding Mulch
Adding mulch to your lawn will be very beneficial since it will:
- Save water
- Act as a protector
- Contribute to soil and plant health
- Improve the aesthetics of your home
Water Saver
Using mulch on your lawn will help reduce the amount of water required. It helps your soil retain moisture, up to 70% more than without it.
Having to water your lawn less equals a lower water bill each month. You will also have to spend less time watering your landscape.
Protector
By keeping moisture in, mulch reduces the stress on your plants by acting as an insulator. It helps maintain a consistent temperature in the soil, therefore, protecting the plant’s roots.
The areas of your property near high traffic areas, like a walkway or driveway, will also benefit from mulch because it acts as a barrier against soil erosion and soil compaction, which will harm plants, including grass.
If you are thinking about growing fruits or plants, mulch will provide shade from the harsh sun for seedlings. As that young plant sprouts out of the ground, the mulch will maintain moist soil to promote well-established roots and provide stability for its stem.
Soil and Plant Health
Organic mulch will make your garden healthier because you’re adding organic matter to the soil as it decomposes. The nutrients that the organic mulch releases will make your lawn more resistant to pests and diseases.
Mulch will also prevent the loss of vitamins that are essential to your plants. It will also stop, or at least reduce, the number of weeds by blocking the sun. Weeds won’t be able to compete with your plants for nutrients.
Aesthetics
Mulching your lawn will also give your home a pleasing, manicured look. Depending on the type you use, it adds rich colors to your home’s aesthetics.
The mulch acts as a barrier that breaks the impact of water falling on the soil. You will be able to avoid ugly soil stains that result from it running into walkways.
Need Expert Advice?
Thinking about all the details surrounding the care of your lawn might seem daunting. Fortunately, some companies offer homeowners yard service.
At Moyer Lawncare and Landscape, we offer various services combined with over 24 years of experience. Contact us today and get your free estimate!
