This post is designed to help you find the best alternative to a standard wood-based mulch. Each substitute has its own benefits and downsides, so be sure to take note of each one’s differences to determine which is best for your specific needs.
Stone
Whether it be as small as pebbles or as large as five inch river rock, stone can be a great alternative to standard wood-based mulch. Here are a few pro’s and con’s to using stone as an alternative to mulch:
- Generally easy and clean maintenance (if installed correctly).
- Does not have to be replenished on a yearly basis.
- Can be very decorative and add a nice change to the landscape.
- Has great drainage qualities.
- Can be hard to remove.
- Can be labor intensive to install.
- May be problematic for certain plants.
Groundcover
Another great alternative to standard mulched beds are groundcover plants. These plants can cover wide areas while looking aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Here are a few pro’s and con’s to using groundcover as an alternative to mulch:
- Low maintenance care.
- Does not need to be replenished yearly.
- Can add color to the landscape with flowers.
- May be expensive to install (depending on size of area and plant selection).
- Requires more maintenance than mulch.
Pine Needles
One last alternative is pine needles. These are great for beds that contain plants that like more acidic soils. Here are a few pro’s and con’s to using pine needles as an alternative to mulch:
- Arguably the most low maintenance with regards to weeding.
- Good for making soil more acidic.
- Easy and fast to install.
- Can be difficult to obtain.
- The look is not for everyone.
- Has to be replenished, but not necessarily on a yearly basis.
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