What Is Black Mulch?

Identification

• Black mulch is a covering placed over dirt. It is black in color due to the addition of charcoal to the mulching material.

Types

• Black mulch can be made of organic materials like shredded hard wood, bark chips and grass clippings, or inorganic materials like recycled tires.

Function

• In general, mulch is used to prevent soil erosion and reduce the effects of heavy rain. Aesthetically, many people prefer black mulch because of its eye-catching appearance, especially when seen against colored flowers.

Benefits

• Black mulch prevents the growth of weeds, meaning less time on your knees pulling them and a decreased need for weed killers. In cold climates, black mulch also captures more sunlight, providing better insulation for your plants than other colors.

Considerations

• If you live in a hot climate, black mulch may make your plants too warm, particularly if they are plants that thrive in the fall like mums, according to the University of Florida. Instead, you may wish to purchase a white mulch.