Whether you're creating a flower bed or planting shrubs, you'll want protective cover against soil erosion and weeds to ensure seedlings have the proper environment for healthy growth. Gravel mulch will not only provide these safeguards but also deliver a beautiful and natural aesthetic to areas in your yard. Here are several reasons why you should consider this method for your green spaces. 

4 Reasons to Use Gravel Mulch 

1. Deters Unwanted Insects

Ants and other insects are drawn to wood chips, straw, pine needles, and other similar mulch types because they provide ideal conditions and moisture for nesting and food sources. Unfortunately, these infestations can cause damage to roots and young buds. Gravel mulch can make it harder for unwanted insects to form living quarters, which keeps them away from your planted areas. 

2. Provides Long-Term Aesthetic

Consider gravel as a mulch cover if you want the color to last. Because the stones are able to outlast weather conditions, you won't have to worry about replacement during each planting or refurbishment season. The natural hues will beautifully acclimate to a wide variety of plant and flower species to maintain the space's overall aesthetic. 

3. Resist Weeds

Plant-based mulch can create openings for weeds to grow and flourish. The infiltration may kill plants and flowers if not addressed early on. 

Gravel mulch is designed to resist dandelions, crabgrass, clover, and other types of weeds for longer periods. You can also plant with more assurance that your seeds and buds will have an extra layer of protection against pesky weed shoots. 

4. Stabilizes Soil

While mulch is recommended to minimize soil erosion, certain types can lose their effectiveness over time. Wind, rain, and insect infestations may cause the material to wear down, which causes soil to loosen and wash away. 

Because gravel mulch is sustainable and has more heft, it helps keep the ground cover intact—but not too compacted that it prevents fertilizer, water, and oxygen from reaching roots and soil. As a result, your plants and flowers are able to receive much-needed nutrients to grow and thrive. 

For your next planting or landscaping project, consider gravel mulch for reliable protection and stunning coverage. The team at Ashcraft Sand & Gravel in Cleves, OH, has a hard-working group of professionals who will provide just what you need, and they specialize in crushed gravel. Serving Cincinnati, Butler County, and the surrounding communities, you can count on them for expert recommendations and on-time delivery. The locally owned supplier offers a wide range of materials and services, such as job-site clearing. Stop by today or call (513) 367-5700 with your questions. Visit the website for their complete lineup of products, including sand and limestone.