No flower bed looks complete without some form of ground cover. If you’re looking to put the finishing touch on your garden, you may be having a hard time deciding between organic mulch and rocks. Both have pros and cons, so learn a little more before you make your choice.
Organic Mulch
Pros
There are many reasons organic mulch is so widely used. It has been shown to increase the growth of plants by providing nutrients, maintaining moisture, and helping to control temperatures. You’ll also have less work because organic mulch can decrease weeds by 50% and reduce erosion by 85%.
Cons
Organic mulch does have a few setbacks. Because it breaks down over time, it has to be replaced as often as once a year. You may also want to hire mulching services Cincinnati Ohio to make sure it is applied correctly. Using too thick of a layer can stress plants while mulching at the wrong time of year can impact effectiveness.
Rocks
Pros
Using rocks as your mulch offers a different set of benefits. Rocks don’t degrade or blow away, so they are long-lasting. That means you’ll enjoy low-maintenance and decreased costs over time. Pebble cover is a popular choice out west because it pairs well with cacti and is fire-proof.
Cons
Unfortunately, rocks also have a downside. Not only do they offer no benefits to your plants, but they can be harmful in some situations. They retain heat which can decrease moisture and stress plants. Rocks also change your soil’s pH. It can become more alkaline or acidic depending on the type of rock. Be wary if you have sensitive plants. Once rocks are installed, the only way to remove them is by hand.
Selecting ground cover will depend on your goals, budget, and plants. Talk to a professional today to make the best choice.