#cedar bark nuggets

[mountainbarkexpress]

Western Cedar Mulch, Bark Mulch, Nuggets & More in Calgary

Wholesale Western Cedar Mulch, bark mulch, and nuggets at Mtn Bark, Calgary's trusted supplier for cedar mulch, organic soil, bark, and fencing. Serving Calgary and nearby areas.

[names-for-alters]

Hello one and all, alters and headmates! I am Charlie! I like to make lists! I also hoard names! Are you looking for a name? GREAT! You can send an ask and request a specific aesthetic or origin of name, or you can look at my list!

With that said…

…Cracks knuckles…

Findo Tach Tails Flicker Tracer Kat Iris Blu Brick Arlo Sammy Artie Finn Stein Aleksandr Vora Olive Luna Nyx Cyrus Qrow Orian Cello Onyx Skye Grim Opal Dawn Azure Fish Bones Poppy Bronze Eggs Sparky Specs Snickers Trout Navi Bingo Chili Bandit Stripe Busker Socks Brandy Frisky Winston Lucky Chucky Bently Judo Rusty Max Honey Indie Calypso Striker Merle Moxxie Vex Ant Bugger Bee Spider Tails Hook Indigo Amber Coco Coral Scarlet Ivory Jade Ruby Emerald Chuck Loden Copper Hamelin Neo Shepard Cinnamon Visor Macalister Soul Hack Hiccup Flynn Rider Astrid Jay Raven Robyn Bolt Dagger Viper Tracer Cornwall Flock Sapphire Crystal Ghost Mochi Trick Catra Rose Raven Flip Chani Racket Red Crimson Dragon Runt Scotch Tellie Gator Croc Crow Goat Duck Creeper Kuma Jet Jeep Draco Poppy Sombra Raine Squish Spike Blaze Ender Drake Sandy MK PJ DJ CJ MJ King Creak Shadow Clay Dusty Miles Dart Willow Antonius Husk Moth Cypher Jin Yin Yang Daisy Gray / Grey Alistair Halo Angel Cake Fennec Fox Null Lull Bastion Lucky Sun Star Cosmo Tweety Vox Nerys Sonic Bark Birch Oak Cherry Blossom Peaches Velvet Shell Coffee Valley Fang Moot Redpath Pudding X V Jr Ether Fig Trunk Joy Frogger Snowflake Snowball Snow Jumper Racket Flare Vendetta Loonie Coin Six Eleven Tropica Stelina Mojave Ink Sud Fender Zero Pollen Wysteria Page Ozias Rex Tortch Buck Nickel Stripe Lynch Tramp Wolf Pup Tank Jhariah Kharma Zenith Sparrow Prism Lemon Mune Lamb Pyke Diamond Parker Graves Fizz Nugget Melody Tink Blight Fangless Ambress Vulture Eclipse Luka Bangle Constance Constantine Sommar Babble Clank Bobble Chipper Aidan Slate Tin Twire Zephyr Silver Misty Faunus Atlas Birdie Brook Cedar Chip Coal Daisy Ember Faye Fate Fern Flint Harmony Helios Ivy Junx Kit Lyria Phoebe Piper Lady Beacon Elos Rumble Ida Cross Zed Scootie Smidge Clauger Happy Sonny Hath Soldier River Song Clawtor Videl Legen Onen Chunk Reid Pop Cobra Cash Clover Saris Volante Donna Belladonna Gale Chopper Morphias Vidia Loft Kape Levi Licker Howl Dustin Newt Creek Breezy Polaris Blight Archer Sirius Warren Dream Goon Cookie Ranger Amity Jericho Viggo Besko Asra Alice Olaf Mossfeld Issic Missy Rascal Creasy Nonya Hex Pita Miguel Manuel Rayburn Daisy Dash Lucky Becky Steele Cylo Featherstone Kingston Netherfield Reacher Saltburn Quick Rubble Dust Brimstone Humble Ado Grover Norvanos Leshy Blade Cooper Calcium

Leo

Leonardo

Lebony

Silver

Linzier

Pearl

blackberry

Tatin

Bud

Raphael

Pebble

Mina

Linda

Oolong

Daeo/Dayo/Dao

Inco

Ketlyn

Risa

Ines

Lora

Flock

Lux

Rix

Reah

Destinty

Bet

Ange

Krixa

Lalien

Gloom

Bug

Rozy

Mars

Screech

Jenny

Robert

Patrick

Pierre Rosemary

Henderson

Mayfield

Sinclair

Sullivan

Hart

Solace

Daughtler

Stoll

Gatlin

Yearwood

Amos

Graves

Rothschild

Halley

Spektor

Presley

Redd

Blackwood

Notvletti

Valerie

Milo

Marian

Lychee

Aiden

Nova

Vel

Bel

Yuri

Puro

Pluto

Ramona

Angel

Nada

Shen

Mog

Hania

Udge

Kinetic

Kikos Wathel

Dupa

Sierre

Jimor

Teddy

coc

Scara

River

Shade

Foenem

Duck

Emily

Toast

Reunna

Ichigo

Rae

Sonic

MoonL

Lennus

cabaran

Marto

Leveer

Granite

Tongle

Gavril

Luella

Malachite

Leonard

[leisure-lawn]

Enhance Yard Landscape with Ground Covering Services in Oklahoma

Transforming your garden or landscape bed can significantly boost the curb appeal and health of your outdoor space. If you're a homeowner in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and surrounding areas, Leisure Lawn offers top-notch mulch or rock ground covering services tailored to meet your unique needs. This blog delves into the benefits and options available for mulch and rock ground covers, ensuring your landscape stays beautiful and vibrant year-round.

Why Choose Mulch or Rock Ground Coverings?

Mulch or rock ground covering service Oklahoma are essential for maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing landscape. These coverings not only enhance the appearance of your garden but also provide several functional benefits:

Insulation: Mulch and rock act as insulators, protecting the soil from extreme temperatures. This helps maintain a stable environment for your plants, ensuring they thrive in both hot and cold weather.

Moisture Retention: By covering the soil, mulch and rock help retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. This is especially beneficial during dry spells, ensuring your plants remain hydrated.

Weed Control: A good layer of mulch or rock prevents the growth of weeds, saving you time and effort in maintaining a neat garden.

Disease Prevention: Ground coverings can help keep soil-borne diseases at bay, protecting your plants and promoting a healthier garden environment.

Popular Types of Mulch and Rock in Oklahoma

Choosing the right type of mulch or rock for your garden depends on both aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Here are some popular options available through Leisure Lawn’s mulch or rock ground covering service in Oklahoma:

Mulch Options:

Black Dyed Mulch: Adds a striking contrast to your garden beds, making plants stand out.

Cedar Mulch: Naturally resistant to pests and decay, cedar mulch is a durable option.

Dyed Cedar Mulch: Offers the benefits of cedar with added color options.

Ground Cedar Mulch: Provides a finer texture, ideal for a uniform look.

Hardwood Mulch: Long-lasting and effective at moisture retention.

Pecan Mulch: A unique, aesthetically pleasing option with a rich color.

Pine Bark Nuggets: Large nuggets that are great for decorative purposes.

Red Dyed Mulch: Adds a vibrant touch to your landscape.

Rock Options:

Black Lava Rock: Provides a bold, dramatic look.

Decomposed Granite: A versatile choice, perfect for pathways and garden beds.

Limestone: Offers a clean, classic appearance.

Red Lava Rock: Adds a warm, earthy tone to your landscape.

Santa Fe Rock: Known for its unique, attractive color and texture.

Shadow Stone: A sophisticated option for a sleek look.

Washed Gravel: Ideal for driveways and larger landscape areas.

The Leisure Lawn Advantage

At Leisure Lawn, we are committed to providing exceptional mulch or rock ground covering service oklahoma. Our team works closely with homeowners to determine the best options for their specific needs.

[dcbutinamrev]

In honor of Hammy’s Death Day Bash, here’s Amrev as Iconic Vines Pt. 3!

(Yes, another one- ) 

Hamilton and Jefferson: *fighting during a cabinet meeting* 

Madison: Can I get a waffle? Can I please get a waffle? 

Harrison: I don’t get no sleep cause of y’all! Y’all never gonna sleep cause of me! 

Eliza: Girl, guess what they got girl, guess what they got? 

Abigal Adams: What? 

Eliza: Life-e saviers 

Abigal Adams: *wheezes* 

Mulligan: Good evening- 

Philip H.: It’s an avacado...thanks! 

Hamilton: *smokes* 

Laurens: *grins* Wow~ 

Tallmadge: Who’s the hottest uber driver you’ve ever had? 

Lafayette: Um...I’ve never went to oovoo Jauver 

Meade: Happy Christmas! It’s Christmas! Merry crisis! Merry Chrysler 

Hale: Word work ahead? Uh, yeah, I sure hope it does- 

Lafayette: I am confusion. Why is this one Kansas? And this one is not R-Kansas. America explain! Explain what you mean by Are-Kan-saw!

Laurens: Is anyone else kind of hot? 

Hamilton: Definietly a little toasty in here

Laurens: Might be a good time to open up some windows

Hamilton: 

Hamilton: Ah! 

Lafayette: Ah! Stop! I could’ve dropped my crossiant! 

Angelica S.: *when she reads the Reynold’s Pamphlet* You freaking freaks! You’re fantasies can’t ever be quenched! Can they?! You freaking freaks! When will you learn?! When will you learn?! That your actions have consequences!

Charles Lee: I’m about sing a song! 

Laurens: Move bitch! Get out the way! 

General Clinton: I’m just chillin’ in Cedar Rapids- 

Hamilton: *at Laurens* Country-boy, I love you, blech 

Washington: *when Hamilton asks to leave to go with Laurens in South Carolina* No off topic questions. Because I don’t want too. No. Permission denied. That’s an off topic question. Next. You have been stopped- 

The Continenatals: *at the Redcoats* Look at all those chickens!

Spada: *barks* 

Lafayette: The power of Christ compells you! The power of Christ compells you!

Tilghman: *sleeping* 

Meade: *pours water* 

Tilghman: Hello? 

Andre: *plays flute hard-core like in carriage* 

Washington: *walks in room* 

Hamilton: Brah! 

Washington: *jumps and relaxes* I’m gonna kill you. I’m gonna kill you. Not even worried about it..  

The aides: *laughs* 

Jefferson: We actually have the chip reader now. 

Hamilton: Oh, yeah? 

Jefferson: Oh, it’s not gonna work with that kind of... 

*transaction completed* 

Jefferson: 

Franklin: *blows smoke* Atom- 

Hamilton: How do you know what’s good for me?! 

Washington: That’s my OPINION! 

The other aides: 

Eliza: Philip, let me see what you got? 

Philip H.: A knife! 

Eliza: No! 

Arnold: You know what? I love myself. Even though I look like a BURNT chicken nugget, I still love myself 

Lafayette: *learning English* Wha...wha...

Hamilton: What does that say, Marquis 

Lafayette: Wha...? 

Hamilton: No! 

Laurens: *at the pantsless flaming shots party* Two shots of vodka- 

Peggy S.: Eliza wake up! 

Eliza: One more minute!

Peggy: You’ve been in a coma for two years... 

Eliza: Okay, two more minutes- 

Tallmadge: *playing piano* 

Hale: SAIL! 

Laurens: *talking about Kinloch* Yeah so he broke up with me 

Hamilton: Why are you looking up? 

Laurens: I need to cry but my lotion was $48!

John Adams: I wanna be a cowboy, baby! I wanna be a cowboy, baby! 

Philomena Cheer: Hey, I want to be famous 

Laurens: *note says I do* Read this 

Hamilton: I do 

Laurens: He said yes! 

Burr: You gotta tell me everything, right now

Hamilton: No 

Burr: Please 

Hamilton: No 

Burr: Please 

Hamilton: No

Laurens: And just remember! No one will be able to hate you than you already hate yourself  

Peggy Shippen: People say I can’t do what I love without college...I don’t need a degree to be a clothing hanger! 

Laurens: Nope, there’s no Q. You loose 

Hamilton: Dude, are you kidding me? You can still add something 

Laurens: I added a belt, four earrings, and an extra arm! You loose!

John Hancock: Would anyone like some stew- 

Hamilton: Babe, do you love me? 

Laurens: *after he discovers Hamilton’s marriage* Not in the slightest

Hamilton: Uugh, for real? Oh my God 

 King George III: All over the world, people are dying of starvation. Africa, Asia, the fucking M24! 

Burr: Not on my watch! Not on my watch! 

Lafayette: *to Laurens about the Schuykill incident*: We tried, but we lost him 

Laurens: Okay, well find him please 

Caleb Brewster: I got this long hair, this big sexy beard, I love my socks cause it’s unique- 

Hamilton: I don’t feel like driving! 

Laurens: *panics and grabs wheel* 

Jefferson: I don’t sing in the shower... I perform...  

King George III: We go to parks everywhere. McDonald’s, supermarkts, stadiums, the fucking M24! 

Hamilton: *at Laurens* Hey, I think you’re really cool. I like you a lot. Maybe we could hang out or something 

Revere: What are you doing? 

Franklin: I’m making holy water... 

Revere: How is that making holy water? 

Franklin: I’m boiling the hell out of it 

Revere: 

Henry Laurens: That’s it! Time out! Get on the lamp!

Laurens: *awkwardly on lamp* I’m in hell! 

Andre: Get me a Bloody Mary and make it snappy 

Arnold: Sir, this is Subway- 

Andre: Just make it happen- 

Monroe: Dear diary, today I couldn’t find my diary so I’m writing this on both of my Kung-Fu Panda 2 DVDs-

Andre: All these ghosts, all these ghosts, and I still can’t find a boo...

Adams: Where’s my new balances hun?

Abigal Adams: I put them in the closet

Adams: Well, they’re not in here! Let’s rock and roll

Abigal Adams: We have to go- 

Adams: I have to record this 

Burr: I should have left you on the street corner where you were standing 

Hamilton: But ya didn’t! 

Meade: Hey, Harrison,

Harrison: What man? 

Meade: Dogs be like...meow! 

Harrison: You stupid idiot! Dogs be like bark! 

James Hamilton: Okay, you’re in time out! Get on top of the fridge!  Get up there! 

Hamilton: This house is a fucking nightmare! 

[kendrabsmith]

Prevent Outdoor Pet Hazards

1# Give Your Pal Shelter From the Weather

Winter calls for extra insulation in dog houses and other outdoor animal shelters. To keep your pet cozy, make a raised bed using a fluffy cushion or blanket. You can also make a bed of dry hay or cedar shavings, but change them often if you do. Check and refresh water bowls often to make sure they don’t freeze over.

2# Stave Off Sunburn

The dog days of summer pose danger for our faithful friends. Short-haired, close-shaven, and light-colored pets are prone to sunburns. The tender skin of snouts, noses, ears, and tails is also exposed to the UV rays. Rub on doggie sunblock (at least SPF 15 in strength) about 15 minutes before a long stretch in the sun. Make sure your pet has a shady spot to hang out, too.

3# Keep Hot Dogs Cool

Heat can be hazardous to your pet’s health. Be sure they have plenty of water. Choose outside bowls that won’t tip, and fill them often. On walks, bring a water bowl and spray bottle for cooling drinks and showers along the way. Never leave pets alone in a vehicle during summer. Temperatures can climb above 100 degrees in a matter of moments.

4# Know the Symptoms of Heatstroke

Humans cool down when we sweat. Dogs chill when they pant. But if your pet can’t stop panting, has labored breathing, their gums turn white or blue, or they become lethargic, get to a vet right away. These are warning signs of heatstroke, which can cause serious illness or even death.

5# Skip the Chocolate Mulch

One kind of bark has a mean bite. Mulch made from the hulls of cocoa beans smells like chocolate, which attracts animals. Like real chocolate, it’s bad for your pooch. Soak the mulch, or wait for a heavy rain to wash away the tempting aroma. You could also pick less-flavorful products like pine straw or cypress nuggets instead.

6# Patrol the Pool and Pond

Wading pools can offer relief from the heat, but deeper waters are danger zones. Whether beachside or poolside, train your dog to climb to dry land. Never leave them alone in the water. Make sure pool covers are tightly in place to prevent drowning. Salt and chlorine aren’t good for your dog’s fur, skin, eyes, nose, or stomach, so don’t let them drink the water, either. After a swim, give them a good rinse. Talk to your vet about products that clean ears and dry them out after a swim.

7# Ditch the Dumpster Diving

Stinky compost and trash piles smell great to your dog. But they’re also filled with rotting food, bacteria, parasites, and germs that are bad for them. Items in the recycling bin have sharp edges that can damage snouts, paws, tongues, and tummies. Choose waste containers with tight-fitting tops. Place tin and broken glass inside cans, and then crush or crimp the rims shut. Keep dogs in your gaze as they graze.

8# Steer Clear of Puddles

Train your pooch to be a puddle jumper, or at least steer them around them. Standing water is a perfect place for bacteria and parasites to breed. If your pet swallows them when they take a drink, they could get seriously ill. Puddles can also contain antifreeze -- which is deadly if animals drink it -- or runoff full of icky chemicals.

9# Control the Critters

Whether it’s a collar, a pill, or a medication you put on their skin, it's important to keep your pet flea- and tick-free. These bugs feast on their blood -- and yours. Plus they carry nasty ailments like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Talk to your vet about the best choice. If you live in a place where ticks thrive, check your pet after every trip outside. If they have fleas, chances are they’re in your house and yard, too. The vet can tell you how to treat them.

10# Get the Pests, Not Your Pets

Pest control requires pet patrol. Some products, including many that tackle fleas and ticks, won’t hurt your pal. But most poisons used to kill rats, moles, gophers, slugs, and snails are strong enough to harm your dog. Buy pet-proof bait traps, and stand guard as needed to keep your dog from digging up buried poisons. Store them out of your pet’s reach.

11# Pick Pet-Safe Products

The things that make your yard and garden healthy, like fertilizers and weed killers, can make your four-legged friend sick. Look for non-toxic options and use them as directed. Make sure spray-on chemicals have dried before you let your dog roam the yard. Keep bags and bottles tightly sealed where they can’t get to them.

12# Fight Flying Foes

You’ll hear a yelp or yowl if your dog is attacked by a bee, yellow jacket, wasp, or hornet. Caulk cracks around windows, doors, and attics, and watch out for burrows where these insects build nests. Long-range aerosol sprays can get rid of unwanted pests. If your dog gets stung, scrape out the stinger. Apply a paste of baking soda and water, then ice the area. An OTC antihistamine, in the right dose for their weight, may also be needed (call your vet for the right amount). But go straight to the vet if they have trouble breathing or lots of swelling.

13# Provide a Winter Wardrobe

Furry friends need more than their own coats to keep warm in winter. Ideally, pets should stay indoors, going outside only for exercise and potty breaks. For outings, dress them in sweaters or coats when temps fall below freezing. Add booties to their wardrobe to protect paws from snow and ice, which can cause frostbite, or salt, which can cause burns. Dampen a towel with warm water to wipe down your dog's paws when they come in from the cold.

[the-hermit-path]

Recently I made ❄an oil for the Winter Solstice❄ with some things I had on hand, and then took a walk through the woods and realized that I'd managed to perfectly capture "cold, wet forest as autumn gives way to winter", so here's a rough recipe:

3 parts peppermint, pine, clove, and fir oil

1 part rosemary, lemon, orange, vanilla, patchouli, amber, cinnamon, eucalyptus, pomegranate, and frankincense oil

These aren't exact measurements, so play around with it until it's a perfect balance of minty coolness and spiced warmth. If you don't have fir oil, cedar, spruce, or extra pine oil should do just fine. I also added a small piece of clear quartz and obsidian, along with a pinch of wintergreen, yarrow, holly, a nugget of frankincense and myrrh resins, a chip of cinnamon bark, one anise seed, and a few juniper berries, but you can add or omit anything you like.

❄🌲Happy winter crafting, moonbeams!🌲❄

[ 🚫 terfs, trans/homophobes, and racists do not interact 🚫 ]

[jodybouchard9]

What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover

Singkham/iStock

If you’ve been wondering, “What is mulch?” as you wander your local garden center in a state of confusion, we’re here to help. Those enormous bags lining the aisles aren’t just tripping hazards—they’re also well-calibrated mixtures designed to protect and enrich your plants and and boost your curb appeal with minimal effort. Here’s the lowdown on all things mulch, including types of mulch, how much mulch you need, and more.

Get ready to pamper your plantings!

What is mulch made of, anyway?

Photo by Huettl Landscape Architecture

“At its most basic level, mulch is a spreadable way to cover soil around shrubs and flower beds,” says Sam Souhrada, maintenance division manager at FormLA Landscaping. Among the many types are wood chips and shredded bark (cedar, redwood, pine, juniper, spruce, yew), grass clippings, composted manure, rocks, pebbles, nut hulls—and even sea shells or newspaper.

The mulch materials you need also depend on the zone you live in, notes Craig Jenkins-Sutton, president and co-founder of Topiarius. “In Chicago, which is Zone 6, hardwood works well, including alder, balsa, beech, hickory, oak, teak, or walnut,” he says.

What does mulch do?

Photo by Johnson Creek Landscaping

Mulch is a protective layer that helps the skin of the earth retain moisture and helps avoid cracking, says Souhrada. “It serves as insulation, discourages weeds, keeps roots at a more consistent temperature, and it nourishes the soil as it decomposes, reviving richness and fertility,” he adds. Landscape fabric, a textile made from organic or synthetic materials, can be used beneath any type of mulch to further inhibit weed growth.

Mulch can also prevent critters from digging into your dirt, and it keeps dust from swirling along garden pathways. “And from a design perspective, mulch gives your landscape a finished look and may even serve as an important landscaping element in your gardens,” Souhrada adds.

What type of mulch should I get? 

Photo by Richard Kramer 

The kind of mulch you buy depends on where you plan to spread it and the look you want. Pebbles and smooth river stones tend to line walkways and prevent soil erosion, while straw is commonly used around vegetable plants. If you want to recycle, try some newspapers. Place a layer in your garden and cut holes in it for each plant or spread shredded papers around bushes.

Wood chips and bark are the most commonly used and widely available type of mulch. “I like certified organic redwood, cedar, or pine bark,” says Souhrada. Shredded wood mulch lasts one to three years and gives a natural look, while rubber mulch won’t decompose, is weather-resistant and can last up to 10 years, reports Rhianna Miller of Rubbermulch.

Size should also be considered with some plantings. Some mulch may be too large, including bark nuggets, which can overwhelm delicate annuals like tulips, but it’s fine around trees. Pathways, slopes, and areas prone to flooding or winds should use heavier, larger pieces.

If bugs are an issue, Matt Michaels, a planting expert from Lowe’s, suggests, “Termites can be attracted to the wood in compost, but more often, they like the larger pieces of wood rather than finely shredded mulch or bark nuggets.” Pro tip: Mulches made from cypress and eucalyptus aren’t as popular with pesky mites; nor are shredded rubber mulch, stone, and crushed rock.

Want some free mulch? “Fallen tree leaves can nourish both the tree and its understory plants, and grass clippings spread over a lawn can protect its moisture content,” says Souhrada.

How much mulch do I need?

Photo by Regenesis Ecological Design 

Souhrada recommends a layer about a couple inches thick, spread around with a rake twice a year, in the fall and spring. If you can only manage once, aim for spring. Using groundcover at the start of the growing season maintains soil moisture, protects roots from high heat, and tamps down weed growth.

Too much mulch, however, can suffocate plants—and mulching too early will actually slow the soil’s warming process. “Don’t apply new mulch on top of old—it’ll cause nutrient starvation and plant death,” adds Miller. And don’t cover root bases, as a lack of ventilation prevents the tree trunk from drying, turning it spongy and rotten.

Furthermore, don’t bother spreading mulch on hillsides; the mulch will end up running off in the rain. And avoid blanketing mulch right up to the sides of your home. Instead, leave at least a 6-inch clear area to prevent infestation and allow for drainage.

The post What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com��.

[mountainbarkexpress]

Looking for premium Landscaping products in Calgary, Canada?

Looking for premium bark products in Canada? Click here for top-quality mulch, bark nuggets, and ground cover solutions. Perfect for landscaping projects, MTN Bark offers natural, sustainable products that enhance soil health and garden aesthetics. Elevate your outdoor spaces with eco-friendly mulch options today!

[jodybouchard9]

What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover

Singkham/iStock

If you’ve been wondering, “What is mulch?” as you wander your local garden center in a state of confusion, we’re here to help. Those enormous bags lining the aisles aren’t just tripping hazards—they’re also well-calibrated mixtures designed to protect and enrich your plants and and boost your curb appeal with minimal effort. Here’s the lowdown on all things mulch, including types of mulch, how much mulch you need, and more.

Get ready to pamper your plantings!

What is mulch made of, anyway?

Photo by Huettl Landscape Architecture

“At its most basic level, mulch is a spreadable way to cover soil around shrubs and flower beds,” says Sam Souhrada, maintenance division manager at FormLA Landscaping. Among the many types are wood chips and shredded bark (cedar, redwood, pine, juniper, spruce, yew), grass clippings, composted manure, rocks, pebbles, nut hulls—and even sea shells or newspaper.

The mulch materials you need also depend on the zone you live in, notes Craig Jenkins-Sutton, president and co-founder of Topiarius. “In Chicago, which is Zone 6, hardwood works well, including alder, balsa, beech, hickory, oak, teak, or walnut,” he says.

What does mulch do?

Photo by Johnson Creek Landscaping

Mulch is a protective layer that helps the skin of the earth retain moisture and helps avoid cracking, says Souhrada. “It serves as insulation, discourages weeds, keeps roots at a more consistent temperature, and it nourishes the soil as it decomposes, reviving richness and fertility,” he adds. Landscape fabric, a textile made from organic or synthetic materials, can be used beneath any type of mulch to further inhibit weed growth.

Mulch can also prevent critters from digging into your dirt, and it keeps dust from swirling along garden pathways. “And from a design perspective, mulch gives your landscape a finished look and may even serve as an important landscaping element in your gardens,” Souhrada adds.

What type of mulch should I get? 

Photo by Richard Kramer 

The kind of mulch you buy depends on where you plan to spread it and the look you want. Pebbles and smooth river stones tend to line walkways and prevent soil erosion, while straw is commonly used around vegetable plants. If you want to recycle, try some newspapers. Place a layer in your garden and cut holes in it for each plant or spread shredded papers around bushes.

Wood chips and bark are the most commonly used and widely available type of mulch. “I like certified organic redwood, cedar, or pine bark,” says Souhrada. Shredded wood mulch lasts one to three years and gives a natural look, while rubber mulch won’t decompose, is weather-resistant and can last up to 10 years, reports Rhianna Miller of Rubbermulch.

Size should also be considered with some plantings. Some mulch may be too large, including bark nuggets, which can overwhelm delicate annuals like tulips, but it’s fine around trees. Pathways, slopes, and areas prone to flooding or winds should use heavier, larger pieces.

If bugs are an issue, Matt Michaels, a planting expert from Lowe’s, suggests, “Termites can be attracted to the wood in compost, but more often, they like the larger pieces of wood rather than finely shredded mulch or bark nuggets.” Pro tip: Mulches made from cypress and eucalyptus aren’t as popular with pesky mites; nor are shredded rubber mulch, stone, and crushed rock.

Want some free mulch? “Fallen tree leaves can nourish both the tree and its understory plants, and grass clippings spread over a lawn can protect its moisture content,” says Souhrada.

How much mulch do I need?

Photo by Regenesis Ecological Design 

Souhrada recommends a layer about a couple inches thick, spread around with a rake twice a year, in the fall and spring. If you can only manage once, aim for spring. Using groundcover at the start of the growing season maintains soil moisture, protects roots from high heat, and tamps down weed growth.

Too much mulch, however, can suffocate plants—and mulching too early will actually slow the soil’s warming process. “Don’t apply new mulch on top of old—it’ll cause nutrient starvation and plant death,” adds Miller. And don’t cover root bases, as a lack of ventilation prevents the tree trunk from drying, turning it spongy and rotten.

Furthermore, don’t bother spreading mulch on hillsides; the mulch will end up running off in the rain. And avoid blanketing mulch right up to the sides of your home. Instead, leave at least a 6-inch clear area to prevent infestation and allow for drainage.

The post What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

[jodybouchard9]

What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover

Singkham/iStock

If you’ve been wondering, “What is mulch?” as you wander your local garden center in a state of confusion, we’re here to help. Those enormous bags lining the aisles aren’t just tripping hazards—they’re also well-calibrated mixtures designed to protect and enrich your plants and and boost your curb appeal with minimal effort. Here’s the lowdown on all things mulch, including types of mulch, how much mulch you need, and more.

Get ready to pamper your plantings!

What is mulch made of, anyway?

Photo by Huettl Landscape Architecture

“At its most basic level, mulch is a spreadable way to cover soil around shrubs and flower beds,” says Sam Souhrada, maintenance division manager at FormLA Landscaping. Among the many types are wood chips and shredded bark (cedar, redwood, pine, juniper, spruce, yew), grass clippings, composted manure, rocks, pebbles, nut hulls—and even sea shells or newspaper.

The mulch materials you need also depend on the zone you live in, notes Craig Jenkins-Sutton, president and co-founder of Topiarius. “In Chicago, which is Zone 6, hardwood works well, including alder, balsa, beech, hickory, oak, teak, or walnut,” he says.

What does mulch do?

Photo by Johnson Creek Landscaping

Mulch is a protective layer that helps the skin of the earth retain moisture and helps avoid cracking, says Souhrada. “It serves as insulation, discourages weeds, keeps roots at a more consistent temperature, and it nourishes the soil as it decomposes, reviving richness and fertility,” he adds. Landscape fabric, a textile made from organic or synthetic materials, can be used beneath any type of mulch to further inhibit weed growth.

Mulch can also prevent critters from digging into your dirt, and it keeps dust from swirling along garden pathways. “And from a design perspective, mulch gives your landscape a finished look and may even serve as an important landscaping element in your gardens,” Souhrada adds.

What type of mulch should I get? 

Photo by Richard Kramer 

The kind of mulch you buy depends on where you plan to spread it and the look you want. Pebbles and smooth river stones tend to line walkways and prevent soil erosion, while straw is commonly used around vegetable plants. If you want to recycle, try some newspapers. Place a layer in your garden and cut holes in it for each plant or spread shredded papers around bushes.

Wood chips and bark are the most commonly used and widely available type of mulch. “I like certified organic redwood, cedar, or pine bark,” says Souhrada. Shredded wood mulch lasts one to three years and gives a natural look, while rubber mulch won’t decompose, is weather-resistant and can last up to 10 years, reports Rhianna Miller of Rubbermulch.

Size should also be considered with some plantings. Some mulch may be too large, including bark nuggets, which can overwhelm delicate annuals like tulips, but it’s fine around trees. Pathways, slopes, and areas prone to flooding or winds should use heavier, larger pieces.

If bugs are an issue, Matt Michaels, a planting expert from Lowe’s, suggests, “Termites can be attracted to the wood in compost, but more often, they like the larger pieces of wood rather than finely shredded mulch or bark nuggets.” Pro tip: Mulches made from cypress and eucalyptus aren’t as popular with pesky mites; nor are shredded rubber mulch, stone, and crushed rock.

Want some free mulch? “Fallen tree leaves can nourish both the tree and its understory plants, and grass clippings spread over a lawn can protect its moisture content,” says Souhrada.

How much mulch do I need?

Photo by Regenesis Ecological Design 

Souhrada recommends a layer about a couple inches thick, spread around with a rake twice a year, in the fall and spring. If you can only manage once, aim for spring. Using groundcover at the start of the growing season maintains soil moisture, protects roots from high heat, and tamps down weed growth.

Too much mulch, however, can suffocate plants—and mulching too early will actually slow the soil’s warming process. “Don’t apply new mulch on top of old—it’ll cause nutrient starvation and plant death,” adds Miller. And don’t cover root bases, as a lack of ventilation prevents the tree trunk from drying, turning it spongy and rotten.

Furthermore, don’t bother spreading mulch on hillsides; the mulch will end up running off in the rain. And avoid blanketing mulch right up to the sides of your home. Instead, leave at least a 6-inch clear area to prevent infestation and allow for drainage.

The post What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

[jodybouchard9]

What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover

Singkham/iStock

If you’ve been wondering, “What is mulch?” as you wander your local garden center in a state of confusion, we’re here to help. Those enormous bags lining the aisles aren’t just tripping hazards—they’re also well-calibrated mixtures designed to protect and enrich your plants and and boost your curb appeal with minimal effort. Here’s the lowdown on all things mulch, including types of mulch, how much mulch you need, and more.

Get ready to pamper your plantings!

What is mulch made of, anyway?

Photo by Huettl Landscape Architecture

“At its most basic level, mulch is a spreadable way to cover soil around shrubs and flower beds,” says Sam Souhrada, maintenance division manager at FormLA Landscaping. Among the many types are wood chips and shredded bark (cedar, redwood, pine, juniper, spruce, yew), grass clippings, composted manure, rocks, pebbles, nut hulls—and even sea shells or newspaper.

The mulch materials you need also depend on the zone you live in, notes Craig Jenkins-Sutton, president and co-founder of Topiarius. “In Chicago, which is Zone 6, hardwood works well, including alder, balsa, beech, hickory, oak, teak, or walnut,” he says.

What does mulch do?

Photo by Johnson Creek Landscaping

Mulch is a protective layer that helps the skin of the earth retain moisture and helps avoid cracking, says Souhrada. “It serves as insulation, discourages weeds, keeps roots at a more consistent temperature, and it nourishes the soil as it decomposes, reviving richness and fertility,” he adds. Landscape fabric, a textile made from organic or synthetic materials, can be used beneath any type of mulch to further inhibit weed growth.

Mulch can also prevent critters from digging into your dirt, and it keeps dust from swirling along garden pathways. “And from a design perspective, mulch gives your landscape a finished look and may even serve as an important landscaping element in your gardens,” Souhrada adds.

What type of mulch should I get? 

Photo by Richard Kramer 

The kind of mulch you buy depends on where you plan to spread it and the look you want. Pebbles and smooth river stones tend to line walkways and prevent soil erosion, while straw is commonly used around vegetable plants. If you want to recycle, try some newspapers. Place a layer in your garden and cut holes in it for each plant or spread shredded papers around bushes.

Wood chips and bark are the most commonly used and widely available type of mulch. “I like certified organic redwood, cedar, or pine bark,” says Souhrada. Shredded wood mulch lasts one to three years and gives a natural look, while rubber mulch won’t decompose, is weather-resistant and can last up to 10 years, reports Rhianna Miller of Rubbermulch.

Size should also be considered with some plantings. Some mulch may be too large, including bark nuggets, which can overwhelm delicate annuals like tulips, but it’s fine around trees. Pathways, slopes, and areas prone to flooding or winds should use heavier, larger pieces.

If bugs are an issue, Matt Michaels, a planting expert from Lowe’s, suggests, “Termites can be attracted to the wood in compost, but more often, they like the larger pieces of wood rather than finely shredded mulch or bark nuggets.” Pro tip: Mulches made from cypress and eucalyptus aren’t as popular with pesky mites; nor are shredded rubber mulch, stone, and crushed rock.

Want some free mulch? “Fallen tree leaves can nourish both the tree and its understory plants, and grass clippings spread over a lawn can protect its moisture content,” says Souhrada.

How much mulch do I need?

Photo by Regenesis Ecological Design 

Souhrada recommends a layer about a couple inches thick, spread around with a rake twice a year, in the fall and spring. If you can only manage once, aim for spring. Using groundcover at the start of the growing season maintains soil moisture, protects roots from high heat, and tamps down weed growth.

Too much mulch, however, can suffocate plants—and mulching too early will actually slow the soil’s warming process. “Don’t apply new mulch on top of old—it’ll cause nutrient starvation and plant death,” adds Miller. And don’t cover root bases, as a lack of ventilation prevents the tree trunk from drying, turning it spongy and rotten.

Furthermore, don’t bother spreading mulch on hillsides; the mulch will end up running off in the rain. And avoid blanketing mulch right up to the sides of your home. Instead, leave at least a 6-inch clear area to prevent infestation and allow for drainage.

The post What Is Mulch? A Homeowner’s Guide to Groundcover appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.