5 Reasons To Choose Organic Mulch For Your Garden
Adding mulch to the top layer of your garden soil can help control weed growth, retain moisture in the soil, and ensure temperatures never get too high or too low. Of course, there are many different types of mulch from which to choose, and one of the most fundament differences is between organic and inorganic mulch.
Put simply, organic mulch breaks down while inorganic mulch does not. Organic mulch is always made of natural materials, including leaves, bark and grass, whereas inorganic mulch is made either from synthetic materials or long-lasting natural materials, such as small stones. While both types offer their own benefits and drawbacks, here are just five reasons why you should choose organic mulch for your garden.
1. Long-Term Nutrient Release
Since organic mulches decompose naturally over time, they release nutrients such as potassium and nitrogen into your soil. This happens slowly, so whatever you choose to plant is going to enjoy everything it needs to thrive and remain healthy. Better yet, you can achieve that growth without having to turn to synthetic fertilizer.
2. Slowly Breaks Up Soil
Organic mulch does more than release nutrients as it decomposes. That process will also help break up soil, which lets roots grow and spread more easily, allows air to circulate and prevents clay soils from forming into clumps. This all makes your soil far more hospitable to growth, and the process occurs slowly over time to ensure you won't need to break up or aerate the soil yourself.
3. Attracts Beneficial Life
The nutrients released by organic soils can help beneficial microbes and small animals, such as earthworms, to thrive in your garden. Those microbes and small creatures also do their part to break up soil, and whatever they expel can add even more nutrients to your soil.
4. Relatively Low Cost
Compare organic mulches against inorganic mulches and you'll generally find the latter are far more expensive. While inorganic mulches do last longer, they also can also eat up a lot of your gardening budget. Whether you use your own grass clippings or order mulch to your home, going organic can help you save.
5. More Natural Appearance
Appearances should never be a key concern, but it's still worth taking them into account. One thing many people like about organic mulches is that they appear more natural. In contrast, even natural inorganic mulches, such as gravel, often seem out of place in gardens. If you want your outside space to have a more natural or traditional appearance, organic mulch should appeal.
Contact a mulch delivery service to learn more.