The Best Mulching Materials

Landscaping Fabric

• Landscaping fabric can effectively suppress weed growth and prevent weed seeds from germinating. The fabric is able to trap in heat, which causes weeds and seeds to suffocate. For landscaping fabric to remain effective, it cannot have any tears. Sun damage can cause holes or tears in the fabric. You can prevent these tears by adding a layer of mulch on the top of landscaping fabric. Mulch alone might not secure the fabric, which is the reason landscaping pins are pressed into the perimeters of the material.

Mulch for pH Range

• Certain types of mulch regulate pH ranges. Acidic mulches include pine bark, pine needles and peat moss, according to Ohio State University. Using oak leaves or compost will keep the soil more alkaline. For gardeners growing acid-loving plants such as azaleas and roses, spreading a 2 to 2-1/2 inch layer of mulch can help their plants absorb nutrients. Alkaline-loving plants such as pecan trees can benefit from oak leaves or compost mulch.

Inorganic Mulch

• Inorganic or synthetic mulch consists of a variety of mulch types. Rocks, gravel, sea glass, sand, crushes brick, rubber and lava to name a few. This mulch type to prevent weed growth and lock in moisture without having to be reapplied every year. Also, gardeners enjoy its uniform look when it is consistently used throughout garden beds. Large pieces of inorganic mulch can cause problems when weeds get blown or washed into its crevices. Just because this mulch type can last several years doesn't mean that it shouldn't be monitored for weed growth.

Organic

• Organic mulch such as corncobs, hay, hops, grass clippings, peanut hulls, pecan shells and leaf mold add nutrients to the soil as they decompose. Furthermore, organic mulch is able to keep even soil temperatures, according to the University of Illinois. Because fungal spores that cause diseases can easily grow in organic mulch, it is important to ensure that the base of plants are free of any mulch. Allow a 4-inch space between the mulch and plant.