What is Garden Mulch and Why is it Important?

What Is Garden Mulch?

You may be familiar with the leaf and twig matter that comprises the forest or bush floor. Over time, trees continuously shed leaves and twigs onto the ground in the bush. Additionally, the bush is inhabited by various animals, both large and small, who go about their activities, including defecating, foraging, and eventually dying. The resulting decomposition of organic matter and carcasses provides becomes the form of natural mulch and compost that nourish the plants and animals relying on it. This mulch consists mainly of organic material but is also supplemented by foliage (living mulch) and stones (inorganic) found in the bush and forest floor.

This process creates natural mulch but what is garden mulch?

The domestic garden cannot sustain the same level of leaf and twig accumulation, fecal matter, and decomposition that the bush provides for its own nourishment and rejuvenation. Therefore, as gardeners, we need to find suitable alternatives to use as mulch. Similar to the forest or bush, garden mulch serves several purposes and can be classified into three varieties of mulch: organic, living, and inorganic.

Three Types of Landscape Mulch

1. Inorganic Mulch... This type consists of rocks, stones, and materials that do not easily break down with water. We offer a wide range of decorative pebbles, gravels, and garden stones Brisbane wide, making it easy to select the perfect choice for your garden. Inorganic mulch is commonly used in “dry” gardening as it complements the nature of these plant types (consult your local nursery for plant advice). Unlike organic mulches, these varieties of mulch do not decay. Although the initial cost may be higher, depending on the specific decorative pebble or gravel chosen, it can last indefinitely. However, occasional topping up is still required, albeit less frequently than with organic mulches.

2. Organic Mulch... This is the most commonly used type and is similar to the natural forest mulch described earlier. We provide the largest variety of mulch in Brisbane, all conveniently available in one place. Browse our landscaping supplies and explore our range of products, complete with photos that will assist you in making an informed choice for your garden. Our mulches can be obtained in bags or in larger quantities, either by trailer or ute load, or delivered to your location using our delivery trucks. 

3. Living Mulch… These types of mulches are commonly found growing naturally in the bush. We often refer to them as ground covers and may not immediately associate them with mulching. However, they play a crucial role in protecting the topsoil from adverse weather conditions. They help reduce moisture loss, prevent erosion, inhibit weed growth, and safeguard microbial activity in the topsoil. To determine which ground covers are suitable to act as mulch for your garden, consult your local nursery for expert advice. Keep in mind that while ground covers provide mulching benefits, they are also plants and will compete for moisture with other plants in the area.

The Purpose of Mulch

Similar to the forest floor, the primary purpose of mulch is to minimize moisture loss from the topsoil, suppress weed growth, foster microbial activity in the topsoil, and enhance the visual appeal of the garden. Therefore, mulch serves more than just moisture retention. It also plays a significant role in reducing erosion and preventing the topsoil from being washed away, both in natural environments and within your own garden.