What Are Some Landscaping Materials?

Mulch

• Mulch is any kind of loose material placed on the surface of the soil. This is most often a mix of organic materials used to cover areas of bare soil in and around plants. Decorative mulch is commonly made of such materials as wood chips and bits of bark. When spread two or more inches deep on the ground, mulch helps to hold moisture in the soil, prevents the growth of weeds and, over time, enriches the soil as the wood decays. Mulch should not be used to landscape garden areas that are tilled every year, as the decay process uses much of the available nitrogen and will cause vegetable garden plants and annual flowers to fail. In areas where fire can be a problem, wood and bark mulch is not the best choice, due to its flammability.

Plants

• Plants are one of the most common materials used in landscaping. Taller plants such as shrubs and climbing vines can be used as ornamental fences, to highlight specific areas of a yard or as a backdrop for other landscaping features. Shorter plants are used as islands of color or texture. Groundcover plants can take the place of mulch in many areas, providing scent and color along walkways, under trees or in areas where grass might otherwise be planted.

Stone

• Gravel is used to cover areas of bare earth where there are no plants growing. Gravel is available in different sizes and colors, so it can be worked into many different landscaping plans and matched to the color of the house, if desired. Use larger rocks and stones to edge garden areas, for walkways and around ponds. Stones placed flat make walkways and patio areas, while stones set on edge sharply divide a flower bed from a lawn or make a decorative wall tall enough to hold mulch in place.

Wood

• Wood can be used in a variety of forms for landscaping projects. For larger projects, use peeled logs or heavy, squared timber to create planting areas or to create a solid backdrop as a contrast to living plants. Old railroad ties can create terraced areas or raised garden beds. Wood can be prepared in many ways, offering plenty of possibilities for natural textures that are suitable for use in almost any landscape project.