Using mulches for landscaping reduces many problems. Group plants together and use a mulch to reduce weed growth, hold in water, protect your plants from heaving in the winter, prevent erosion, and of course, gives your beds a refined look.
Mulches are either organic (wood, bark and you may fine crushed coconut or cotton hulls) or inorganic (stone, rubber, mats, etc.). Whatever you use, apply the mulch to 3 because it will settle. Stone is more expensive, however, it will stay in place better than bark chips or shredded mulch.
I use circular rubber mats around newly planted trees to hold in water and control weeds. Works great!
If you need a lot of mulch, you can find it in bulk sizes at larger garden retail centers. You can buy it in bales, but you will need a pickup or trailer.
Use breathable landscape fabric under the mulch for better weed control, soil gas exchange, and allows water to get into the soil. Do not use a solid plastic barrier. Amend the soil with organic matter before installing landscape fabric and mulch.
I use edging stones to keep the mulch from washing away in thunderstorms. The edging rises 3 to 4 inches above the mulch.
You can create a design using different types and colors of mulches.
