There are many benefits to using mulch in garden beds and then there are times when decorative stone may be best. To know which one is best for your needs and garden goals, we’ve put together the landscaping pros and cons of decorative rocks vs mulch.
Table of Contents
MULCH
Bark mulch comes from organic material from other trees including cedar, oak, pine, douglas fir, spruce and more. Mulch can be dyed various colours allowing you to choose your preferred shade. Plus, it’s easy to add to your garden beds and for an instant polished and well-manicured look. Here is a more detailed look at the advantages and disadvantages of mulch in your landscaping design:
PROS
- Mulch can improve growth of plants and trees due to the additional layer of protection and nutrients in the soil.
- Mulch can reduce the growth of weeds and does not require any additional weed barrier.
- Allows soil to retain water so you can water your garden beds less frequently and mulch prevents soil erosion
- As the organic material of mulch breaks down, nutrients go back into the soil and plants.
- Keeps the roots of your plants warm and insulated in the winter and keeps them cool in summer.
CONS
- Because it will decay and need to be replaced every year or two, mulch requires more frequent upkeep than other types of mulch.
- An increase in expenses is incurred as a result of the replacement of mulch in garden beds.
- When mulching is applied too late in the season, it may provide weeds the opportunity to develop.
- In order to avoid doing more harm than good to plants, you should be careful not to apply an excessive amount of mulch.
DECORATIVE ROCKS
Decorative stones are available in a wide range of variations, including shapes, colors, and textures, which enables you to personalize your landscaping in any way you like. It has the potential to look more magnificent and serve as a stunning backdrop for the greenery that is scattered throughout your garden. Let’s look at the pros and cons of decorative rocks:
PROS
- While decorative stones may be a larger initial investment, they are less expensive in the long run due to their longevity.
- In dryer climates, stones are preferred as they are non-flammable.
- With so many beautiful options in size & colour, stones allow for more customization to create a unique landscape design.
- Rocks can prevent the growth of weeds.
CONS
- Rocks require a fabric weed barrier underneath to discourage weeds from growing up through the rocks.
- The temperature of the soil cannot be easily regulated under stones causing plants to overheat.
- Falling leaves and debris can get between the stones and have to be removed manually or carefully with proper tools.
- Rocks require a raised edge to keep rocks from shifting.
- Decorative stone does not contribute to the health of plants or soil and can actually create a more alkaline soil which is not good for some trees.
If you’re still not sure which landscaping materials are best for your project, contact Rockland and our staff would be happy to help!
Where in Edmonton & St. Albert Can I Find The Best Landscaping Supply Company?
Rockland has a large selection of Bark, Mulch, and Decorative Rocks plus Edmonton landscaping supplies and equipment rentals for your garden projects.
In Edmonton and St. Albert, Rockland is the most favoured supplier of landscaping products. For your landscaping projects, we specialize in offering the finest landscape supplies. We have gone a long way to comprehend your demands as a 20-year-old, award-winning landscape supplier. Call Rockland immediately at 780-239-7625 or send us a message at sales@rocklandsupplies.com to learn more!
