Organic vs Inorganic Mulches: Which Is Best for Your Garden?
A wide variety of materials are used as mulch in modern gardening but there are only two general categories of mulches: organic and inorganic. Each has a unique set of advantages and disadvantages that make it suitable for certain uses.
Before buying mulch supplies for your residential garden, it's good to learn about your options. That way, you can make a well-informed decision on which one is best for your gardening needs.
Use this guide to educate yourself on organic and inorganic mulches.
Organic Mulches
As the name says, this category of mulches comprises materials that were once living and decompose naturally. As these natural materials decompose, they add beneficial nutrients to the soil, thus encouraging plant growth.
Some common types of organic mulches used today include the following: leaves, grass clippings, bark chips, grape pomace, straw, sawdust, pine needles, and rice hulls. In addition to adding nourishment to the soil, the above mulches can help with:
- Combatting soil erosion
- Suppressing weed growth
- Conserving soil moisture
- Moderating soil temperatures
On the downside, organic mulches have shorter lifespans compared to their inorganic cousins. This is because they undergo the natural process of decomposition and will need to be replaced more frequently. Moreover, some organic mulches can attract and become a habitat for pests such as termites, carpenter ants, earwigs, millipedes, and centipedes if they are not properly placed in the garden or landscape.
Inorganic Mulches
Unlike organic mulches, these mulches are made from hardier non-living materials that don't decompose quickly or at all. However, some of these materials can break down over time. There are several kinds of inorganic mulches out there. The most common examples include rock, gravel, rubber mulch, plastic film, landscape fabric, and many more.
Mulches made from non-living materials work well to prevent soil erosion, inhibit weed growth, and add aesthetic value to the landscape. Plus, they don't need to be replaced as frequently as organic mulches because they do not decompose.
On the downside, inorganic mulches do little to support plant growth. Unlike organic mulches, they do not enrich the soil from decomposition.
If you have been struggling to choose between organic and inorganic mulches, the above guide should help you make an informed decision. Keep in mind that none of the two groups of mulches is better than the other. The best mulch option depends on your gardening situation and needs. For more information, consult a garden supplies store.