How to Choose the Right Mulch for Garden Beds
Patricia Sanders — July 18, 2025
Bark, shredded hardwood, and rock each solve different problems — pick based on plants, drainage, and how much upkeep you want.
Mulch is one of the simplest upgrades that makes planting beds look finished while helping soil hold moisture and stay cooler in summer.
Shredded hardwood or bark blends into most residential landscapes and breaks down over time to feed the soil. Rock mulch lasts longer and can suit dry, modern plantings, but it holds heat and is harder to change later. Avoid piling mulch against stems or trunks — leave a small ring of breathing room.
A two- to three-inch layer is usually enough. Refresh thin spots each year rather than burying plants under deeper and deeper layers.
Topic: Gardening