Consequences of Using the Wrong Type of Mulch

Mulch is commonly used in gardens and around trees. Mulch can make landscaping look better and will also benefit the plants, trees and shrubs, but only if you use the correct mulch. There are different kinds of much, for different uses. Before choosing one it is a good idea to read the package in order to ensure it is the right one for your garden.

• Water will be repelled away from your plants, instead of getting to the roots in order to give your plants a drink. Using fine-grade mulch instead of course grade mulch will repel the water.


• Toxins will be given off. Some mulches are made from recycled tires. There is controversy in using this as it can give off toxins.


• Weeds will not be inhibited. Only ground cover mulch at the proper depth will prevent weeds from coming up.


• Nutrients will not be released into the soil. Only well composted mulch or course-grade organic mulch will release breakdown to release nutrients into the soil, others will not.


• Bacteria and fungus can grow. This often happens when one uses fine-grade mulch around plants and trees.


• Disease can be transmitted to plants. Studies have shown that using fresh mulch from a diseased tree, can transmit the disease to some plants. Only use mulch that has been composted for at least six weeks.


• Plants may get too much heat. Using stone mulch around certain plants is not a good idea. They will hold heat in which can damage some plants.


• Soil may become too acidic or alkaline over a period of years. This comes from using the same mulch for years, as they decompose and the soil can become more acidic or alkaline depending on which mulch you use. Mulch from acidic sources such as pine bark, pine needles and peat moss will cause too much acid. Mulch from alkaline sources, which would be hardwood bark mulch will cause the soil to be too alkaline. It is a good idea to mix it up over the years to avoid this problem.