8 Types Of Mulch For Landscaping And Gardening

Rubber

Mulch made from recycled tires, effective for weed suppression, long-lasting, suitable for playgrounds, flower beds, and gardens.

Landscape Fabric or Plastic

Weed prevention for flower beds, allows air and water to pass through; plastic for short-term weed killing, fabric for long-term use with mulch on top.

Rock or Crusher Fine

Lava rock, gravel, marble chips, and pea gravel, ideal for hardscapes and pathways; avoid using around most plants due to moisture retention issues.

Inorganic Mulch

Long-lasting mulch effective for weed prevention, adding color or texture to landscapes; includes rock, crusher fine, landscape fabric, plastic, and rubber.

Composted Animal Manure

Nutrient-rich mulch from herbivores, best for vegetable gardens; avoid fresh manure due to potential plant root burn and disease pathogens.

Compost

Nutrient-rich mulch made from kitchen scraps and garden trimmings, ideal for flower beds and vegetable gardens; breaks down quickly, needs refreshing.

Hazelnut Shells

Amber-colored mulch, ideal for perennials, vegetables, flower beds, ground cover, or pathways; deters pets and slugs, lasts several years.

Cocoa Chips

Lightweight, pleasant-scented mulch, best for flower beds, vegetable gardens, or around trees and shrubs; avoid if you have pets due to toxicity.