When most people think of landscape design, they think about their lawns, flowerbeds, and trees. However, landscaping consists of many elements that may surprise you. Mulch, for example, is an imperative part of your landscape design's look, but it is also essential for helping your plants, trees, and shrubs grow and thrive. With this guide, you will learn a few tips to help you select the right mulch for your landscaping needs.

1.  Choose Between Inorganic or Organic Mulch

The type of mulch you choose can make or break your landscape. To get started, you need to decide whether you want to spread inorganic or organic mulch, but you need to know the differences first.

Inorganic mulch is made out of either manmade or natural materials that do not break down and deteriorate into the underlying soil.

Examples of inorganic mulch include gravel, pebbles, stones, or even recycled tires made into rubber mulch. Tumbled glass shards can also be an example of inorganic mulch. Although this mulch can add a decorative accent and even trap in some moisture for your plants, inorganic mulch does not benefit the underlying soil.

Organic mulch is also an option to consider. Organic mulch is made from plant matter, which will break down over time, nourishing the underlying soil.

Here are a few examples of organic mulch:

• Pine needles/pine straw
• Wood bark chips
• Shredded wood bark
• Composted yard waste
• Leaves
• Grass clippings

2.  Choose the Right Color/Overall Look

Once you decide between inorganic and organic mulch, you will need to decide on a color and the overall look it will create in your landscape design. To do so, focus on your home's exterior to ensure the mulch color complements your home, enhancing its curb appeal and value.

Different colors will look differently depending on your home's exterior and the plants you have in your landscape design.

Black mulch works well with most designs because it allows the color of the plants to pop out from the mulch's background. Black is also somewhat neutral, so it looks good with most siding colors. While you want certain plants and flowers to stand out, the black mulch will also show weeds easier than other mulch colors.

Mulch is also available in a few brown shades. The brown offers a natural appeal that works well with most home and landscape styles.

Red is also becoming a popular option even though the brighter color does not appear as natural.

Choosing the right mulch does not have to be stressful. This guide will help you get started choosing the best mulch for your landscaping and curb appeal needs. For more information, contact a residential mulch service.