The reflected heat might kill thin-barked trees. Non-flammable (as I read in the Boulder County Land Use Department Publication, using rocks for landscaping around your home can save it from fire)Īccording to the Missouri Department of Conservation, rocks are not recommended for mulching around trees. Suitable only for plants that can withstand higher temperatures Harder to install (I had to put up a raised edge to prevent rocks from shifting) Last longer than mulch and require almost no maintenance If you are lucky, they can last you a lifetime!) More expensive than mulch (but remember what I’ve told you: there is no need to replace it as often. Here are all the pros and cons I know about: ProsĬome in various colors, shapes, and textures highly customizable too However, be careful where and how you use them.Īs I read in a study conducted by Anja Schmithals and Norbert Kühn, Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning, Technische Universität Berlin, the soil temperature below gravel mulch is much higher, and that means this type of coverage might not be the best choice in areas with hot and dry climate. Rocks look great in contrast to green plants and blooming flowers. Check out a great video I have found showing you how to do it: To enjoy all these benefits, you must use mulch properly. Not the best option for particularly rainy areas since the soil can be soggy too often It is an organic matter that slowly breaks down and feeds your soil with nutrients It blocks the sun and keeps the weeds from germinatingĮasy to add to your garden and flower bedsĪttracts some bugs, such as slugs, earwigs, and cutworms, since they adore the cool, dark, and moist environment Neutralizes pollutants (you can read more about that in a dissertation written by Hanieh Soleimanifar from Montclair State University)Ĭan deplete nitrogen content from soil (Luckily, according to an article published by the University of Saskatchewan, this happens only in upper layers and does not affect your plants) Too much mulch can be harmful (As advised by the Village of Bloomingdale website, the mulching depth should be 2 to 4 inches) Protects plant roots from the heat in the summer and frost in the winter by maintaining moderate temperatures throughout the year Must be used early in the season before the weeds start growing Helps control weed growth and suppresses pathogens and some pests Might be cheaper initially, but the cost adds up every time you need to replace or replenish mulch Needs to be replaced more often than rocks because it decomposesĮnhances water infiltration and retention so you can water your yard less frequently ProsĪesthetically pleasing comes in various colors for every taste I’ve listed them all here and added a few cons. MulchĪs I found out from Linda Chalker-Scott, a Ph.D.Master Gardener, WSU editor,Įxtension Urban Horticulturist and Associate Professor at Washington State University, using mulch has a few direct benefits. It comes down to your gardening goals, landscape design, and the conditions in your yard, but, to help you out, I have made a list of pros and cons for each of the two. Pros & Cons Of Rocks & Mulch: How To Choose Between The Two?īoth rocks and mulch have advantages and disadvantages, so choosing which one to use can be a bit daunting, especially if you like them both like I do. Requires maintenance to keep its natural appearanceĬan prevent water erosion around the pond I highly suggest you see more fishpond designs using mulch and rocks like this by visiting, a community full of DIY websites and brands. This fishpond installation looks more natural than it is! The rocks create a great border around the water and make the pond appear less manmade and the wood mulch is a good way to provide some planting space after installation. Just keep in mind it is not always allowed, according to, a leading portal to geology and Earth science news. I’m all for collecting rocks and stones outside this idea can cost almost no money. 29 Landscaping Ideas With Mulch & Rocks: Conclusion.28.5 Do you need fabric under rock mulch?.28.3 What color of rock is best for landscape?.28.2 Is it better to put rocks or mulch next to your house?.28.1 Can you mix rock and mulch in landscaping?.27 Pros & Cons Of Rocks & Mulch: How To Choose Between The Two?.
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