When it comes to choosing a ground cover for your landscape beds, two popular options are mulch and rock. Both of these are great ground cover for many of the same reasons as they both provide benefits such as weed control and soil temperature regulation, but they do have a few differences between them. Mulch is made up of organic materials that will decompose over time, so it will need to be replaced on occasion. On the other hand, rock ground covers don't decompose, so they only need to be replaced when their color starts to fade. When choosing between mulch and rock ground cover for your landscape beds in Ohio, it will all come down to your personal preference.

Mulch and rock ground covers provide similar benefits.

Worker in Delaware, OH, applying mulch ground cover in landscape bed.

Using mulch or rocks as a ground cover for your landscape beds offers great benefits for your soil and plants. Weed prevention is easier when the soil is covered, preventing weed seeds from growing due to lack of light and limited oxygen exposure. This will make maintaining your gardening beds much easier since you won't have to spend as much time pulling weeds from them. Another benefit of using mulch or rock is soil erosion control. They help to keep soil in place, reducing the risk of erosion caused by wind or water. This is especially important on slopes or areas with loose soil.

Mulch and rock can also regulate soil temperature. They act as a natural insulator, keeping the soil warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This can help to protect delicate plants from extreme temperatures and help keep them healthy. Finally, mulch and rock can help to retain moisture in the soil. They prevent water from evaporating too quickly, so you can water less frequently and keep your plants hydrated.

The difference: mulch decomposes, but rocks remain the same.

The primary difference between mulch and rock is that mulch decomposes over time, while rock does not. When mulch decomposes, it releases nutrients into the soil, which can be beneficial for plant growth. However, this also means that you will likely need to replenish mulch more often than rock. On the other hand, rock does not decompose, so it can last for years without needing replacement. If you notice that the color of the rocks is beginning to fade or it looks worn down, you can replenish them to restore their appearance.

It is recommended to install a layer of mulch ground cover that is about 2-3 inches thick.

Which type of ground cover is better for your landscape beds?

Person holding a handful of mulch.

When deciding whether to use mulch or rock for your landscape beds, it's important to consider your personal preferences and aesthetic taste. Mulch can give your landscape bed a natural, earthy look, while rock can provide a contemporary and clean appearance. If you don't want to replace your ground cover annually, rock may be the way to go. However, if you don't care about replacing your ground cover, you can't go wrong with either option! Ultimately, the choice between mulch and rock comes down to what will work best for your specific wants and needs.

Call us now to schedule our mulch or rock installation service!

Making your landscape beds beautiful with mulch or rock is easy when you call us at Hoffmans Lawn & Fertilization. We have been installing black mulch and river rock for 9 years, so you can expect reliable and efficient service. We offer our mulch installation service and rock installation service to both residential and commercial properties, as well as HOAs, in Delaware, Lewis Center, Powell, OH, and the surrounding areas. So, if you find yourself wanting to improve the look of your property, call us at (740) 318-5296 to get started with us today!