Homesteading, Gardening, and Off-Grid Living

Category: Mulch

  • Wood Chips Vs Mulch: What’s the Difference and Pros and Cons

    Wood Chips Vs Mulch: What’s the Difference and Pros and Cons

    There are many different types of mulch that can be used for ground cover in your garden. One of the most popular types of mulch is wood chips. Other popular types of organic mulch include bark, straw, shredded leaves, grass clippings, and compost. There are inorganic mulches as well such as rock, rubber, or plastic…

  • Does Peat Moss Make Soil Acidic + Pros and Cons

    Does Peat Moss Make Soil Acidic + Pros and Cons

    Some plants prefer acidic soil. Examples include rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas, and blueberries. If your garden has neutral or alkaline soil, you may have to add a soil amendment to make it acidic enough to grow these acid-loving plants. One great way to increase the acidity of you soil is to mix in some peat moss.…

  • What is the Best Mulch to Prevent Weeds in Your Garden? 

    What is the Best Mulch to Prevent Weeds in Your Garden? 

    One of the best ways to control weeds in your garden is to mulch. Mulch prevents weed seeds from reaching the soil. It also blocks light so existing weed seeds have a harder time pushing through to the surface. This guide explains the best type of mulch to prevent weeds. I’ll also list a few…

  • How Much Does a Cubic Yard of Bulk Mulch Weigh?

    How Much Does a Cubic Yard of Bulk Mulch Weigh?

    On average, a scoop of mulch weighs 400-800 pounds. A cubic yard of mulch weighs 600-1200 pounds. A bag of mulch weighs 20-50 pounds. The exact weight depends on the type of mulch you’re buying and its water content. A scoop of pea gravel weighs a lot more than a scoop of bark mulch. Wet mulch…

  • The Pros and Cons of Dyed Black Mulch Vs Natural Mulch

    The Pros and Cons of Dyed Black Mulch Vs Natural Mulch

    Dyed black mulch is one of the most attractive mulches. It has a modern look that really makes your plants stand out. It can also suppress weed growth, insulate the soil, retain soil moisture, and reduce soil erosion. There are some drawbacks to consider. Black mulch can absorb quite a bit of heat. It can…

  • Using Sawdust as Mulch for Your Garden: Pros and Cons

    Using Sawdust as Mulch for Your Garden: Pros and Cons

    Sawdust can make a great mulch for your garden. It can help suppress weeds and insulate your soil. It’s often available for free. Sawdust can also be used to increase the acidity of your soil. This is great for acid-loving plants. Of course, there are some drawbacks to consider. Sawdust can temporarily deplete the nitrogen…

  • How Often Should You Replace Mulch and When to Replace Mulch

    How Often Should You Replace Mulch and When to Replace Mulch

    Generally, organic mulch like wood chips or bark mulch lasts 1-3 years, depending on the size and type of wood. Inorganic mulches, like rocks or rubber, can last a decade or more. Some mulches, like straw, hay, grass clippings, and sawdust, need to be topped up every couple of months because they degrade quickly. In…

  • The Best Mulch for Roses + How and When to Mulch

    The Best Mulch for Roses + How and When to Mulch

    The best mulch for roses is an organic mulch such as wood chips, shredded wood, or bark. Because roses are such beautiful flowers, it’s a good idea to use dark and beautiful mulch to make their colors pop. A range of other mulches can also be used including straw, grass clippings, pine straw, shredded leaves,…

  • Using Hay as Mulch for Your Garden: Pros and Cons

    Using Hay as Mulch for Your Garden: Pros and Cons

    Hay can make a great mulch for your garden. It’s affordable and easy to spread. Hay also helps to retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and insulate your soil. It adds nutrients and organic materials to your soil as it decomposes. Of course, there are some drawbacks to consider. Hay doesn’t last as long as other…

  • Triple Shredded Mulch Vs Regular Mulch: Which is Best?

    Triple Shredded Mulch Vs Regular Mulch: Which is Best?

    When gardening, it’s always a good idea to use some type of soil cover. Mulch helps suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, insulate the soil, and reduce erosion. This guide explains the differences and lists the pros and cons of triple shredded vs regular mulch to help you choose the best one for your vegetable gardens. We’ll…