Mulch has been a popular garden accent tool for many years now, but trends show that people are moving away from mulch to more eco-friendly options. There is no doubt that mulch serves a particular purpose; it can help roots retain moisture in the hot summer months and the winter, it helps control weeds, and it can be a useful filler in between plantings.
However, we would like to challenge the use of mulch and perhaps plant some more natural and eco-friendly garden ideas in your mind for 2022.
Why Stop Using Mulch?
Consumers are becoming more and more eco-friendly and environmentally conscious, and they are searching for ways to do their part and be kinder to nature. Mulch is not particularly bad for the environment, but other options are longer-lasting and natural. We are talking about:
- Groundcover plants
- Rock hardscapes, rock pathways and rock gardens
Whether you change up your space for the earth or for your aesthetic, these options are eco-friendly and sure to benefit your local ecosystem.
What is a Groundcover and Why Should I Use It?
Groundcover plants spread easily, though not necessarily invasively, to retain soil composition, keep weeds at bay, and to potentially add color, texture or both to your landscape. Plants in this category are a great option for a variety of reasons.
Not only are groundcovers eco-friendly, but they can grow year after year, and they encourage and attract a diverse range of wildlife. The best part about groundcovers is that they will often be self-sufficient after they establish, which means you will be watering, mowing, and worrying about your garden less. Plus, they add a beautiful layering effect to your garden!
What Type of Groundcovers Should I Plant?
There are so many different types of groundcovers, so you’ll need to decide what purpose your groundcover will serve for you. If your groundcover is for:
- Replacing mulch in your garden: a groundcover that will choke out weeds could be a good idea, such as a perennial Creeping Jenny.
- Between rocks and pathways: you may want one that is fast-growing and spreads, such as Creeping Thyme.
- Replacing your lawn: a walkable groundcover is for you, like Scotch or Irish Moss.
- A rock garden: a hardy, evergreen groundcover could be a good option, such as low growing Juniper or groundcover sedum (also called stonecrop) that will choke out weeds and not require much water.
What Are the Benefits of Using Rocks Instead of Mulch?
Rocks are much better at suppressing weeds than mulch because they are heavier. They are eco-friendly, low maintenance, and so many different colors, shapes, and sizes will suit every aesthetic need in your yard or garden.
Smaller pebble rocks are helpful if you’d like to replace mulch from in between your plantings for something that is less maintenance. You can include large quarry rocks in your landscape, as these take up some space, but they also add visual appeal. Flagstone rocks are excellent for making walkable pathways in your garden and around your yard. Medium-sized round rocks or quick wall rocks can border your entire garden.
One of the best ways to incorporate rocks into your garden is to create a rock garden! Rock gardens typically use different types of rocks in various designs amongst drought-tolerant plants, making this garden option both eco-friendly and low-maintenance.
Whether you’re tired of using mulch, want to be more eco-friendly, or yearn for hours back that your garden takes from you while you’re watering and pulling weeds, these natural options are the way to go.
We have all the information you need at Plant Perfect Garden Center, and we look forward to helping you create the eco-friendly, mulch-less garden oasis you’ve been picturing.