When to Replace Permanent Rock Mulch?

What Is Permanent Rock Mulch?

• Permanent rock mulch consists of inorganic materials such as rocks, pebbles or gravel. According to the Savvy Gardener, a 1- to 2-inch layer of rock mulch provides sufficient protection from weeds. This kind of mulch provides you with year-round color that does not fade or erode and requires only a little maintenance to replenish the stones every one or two years.

To Cool the Landscape

• Rock mulch can create a super hot landscape when the heat of the sun reflects off the stones. This can create problems with your plants if you are not able to give them sufficient water to keep up with the scorching heat. If this is the case with your garden or landscape, it may be time to replace permanent rock mulch with a durable bark or wood chips that do not retain as much heat.

Appropriate Plantings

• The bulkiness of the rocks in permanent rock mulch can make it a pain to maneuver around when you plant your annual flowers. If you are willing to expend the energy and the cost, you can replace the rock mulch each year when you plant your annuals. Otherwise, replace permanent rock mulch in an annual landscape with an organic material you can easily move around and insert seeds, plants or bulbs. Permanent rock mulch is well suited for trees and shrubs, since you do not need to move them.

Considerations

• Use caution when using your lawnmower around rock mulch, as the mower can pick up the rocks and toss them around, creating a hazard for you and anyone in the vicinity. Placing a border around the mulch so the mower does not run over the rocks can help prevent any accidents. On the positive side, you can coordinate with your home and landscape flowers when choosing the different colors of permanent rock mulch.