The Best Mulch for Cedar Hedges

Benefits of Mulching

• There are several benefits to mulching around cedar hedges. Cedars have relatively shallow root systems which make them susceptible to drought. Sandy, well-drained soils can exacerbate this problem. Also, the extreme of a very wet winter followed by a hot and dry summer can be extremely stressful to cedars' roots. Mulching around the roots will help maintain proper moisture balance and an even temperature. Mulch will also help prevent weeds and protect against lawn mowers.

Best Mulching Practices

• Place mulch approximately 2 inches deep around each cedar. Avoid piling the mulch too deeply or too close against the trunk of the cedars. Improper mulching can lead to even shallower root growth than is normal for the cedar. Piling mulch directly against the trunk can lead to insect infestation or other pest problems and diseases. The mulch should be spread outward to cover as much of the root system as possible.

Organic Mulch

• Organic mulch consists of natural, biodegradable material such as animal manure, compost, by-products from food production (hulls, shells, cobs), peat moss, pine needles, straw, wood chips, shredded bark and slaughterhouse runoff. Organic mulch provides nutrients to the surrounding soil, slowly released during decomposition. Organic mulch can also help maintain a proper pH balance for the cedar hedges.

Inorganic Mulch

• While inorganic mulch will help prevent moisture loss and maintain a constant temperature for the cedar hedges' roots, it will not help to amend the soil with nutrients. Inorganic mulch does not need to be replaced as often as it will not decompose over time. Inorganic mulch materials for use with cedar hedges include shredded rubber tires, stone, pebbles and gravel. Several products made from landscape fabric, or geotextiles, are also commonly available at home and garden stores.