Mulch doesn’t just improve the look of flower beds around your home. This handy material comes in several varieties and offers a slew of benefits that will make you want to call a landscaper and have some installed around your house. What, exactly, does mulch do and which varieties should you consider? Here, Lawn Innovations in Dayton, OH, shares four materials they frequently use and benefits of each option to help you decide.

The Benefits of 4 Common Types of Mulch

Wood Chips

This mulch is often used by homeowners and landscapers alike. This great-smelling material does an excellent job at holding in moisture. It can slow evaporation of water from the soil helping keep plants hydrated. People also love wood mulch for its ability to block out light which prevents weeds from growing. Chips are heavy and thick which can further mitigate weed growth.

Straw

People often use straw mulch in vegetable gardens because it breaks down over the course of a growing season adding nutrients to the soil. Make sure to get straw that is not mixed with hay if you go with this option, as any landscaper will note that hay may contain seeds that take over your garden.

Compost

Compost is an excellent mulch for soil areas that need extra help. This organic matter is made up of decomposing fruit, meat, vegetables, and other plants, which can greatly improve soil composition and increase growth in any type of plant.

Gravel or Pebbles

These small rocks are a great addition if you need to improve drainage in an area. Install gravel mulch around sidewalks, garden beds, or driveways to reduce runoff issues and conserve soil in the area.

Mulch can reduce moisture evaporation, improve drainage, and better soil quality depending on which material you use. To discuss your backyard mulch needs with the talented landscapers at Lawn Innovations, call (937) 626-0406. Visit the website for information on their landscape and hardscape design and installations, maintenance carefree packages, and custom patio creation. They specialize in lawn aeration, fertilizing, mulching, and seasonal cleanup to help you create the outdoor space of your dreams.