MulchWorx Black Mulch Color Concentrate- Gallon - Treats 11,200 sq. ft. - Pure Midnight Black Mulch Dye Spray

Product Information

Synthetic mulches include materials like plastic sheets, rubber, dyed mulches, and more. Unlike organic mulches, synthetic mulches are not biodegradable. They tend to be more convenient and durable and don't need to be replaced as frequently as organic mulches. However, since they do not biodegrade (or do so very slowly), they are less sustainable (environmentally), and also do not provide the soil with nutrients or organic matter like organic mulches do. In some cases, synthetic mulches may even leach harmful chemicals to the surrounding area, which can be detrimental to your garden and the environment. However, synthetic mulches do have their place and can result in benefits similar to those provided by organic mulches (heat retention, moisture retention, etc.) while also often being readily available and easier to maintain. Below are a few examples of synthetic mulches. For a long-lasting mulch that will not fade or deteriorate, rubber mulch is the way to go. Available in three colors, NuScape mulch has the same look as other wood-based mulches but is heavier, more durable, and made of 100 percent recycled rubber. In fact, the brand claims that the color should last for 12 years. It also provides a bit of bounce, making it a great option for playgrounds or swing sets. However, like all wood mulch, it breaks down over time, and like all colorized mulch, it will fade over time. To maintain the most vibrant looks, you should plan to replace it at least once per year, or more depending on your needs and preferences. Keeping water off of the mulch for at least 24 hours after application can help with color retention. However, we think this mulch provides an affordable way to upgrade your flower beds and other outdoor landscapes, earning our top spot on this list.

Rubber mulches are highly flammable, and they’re difficult to extinguish once a fire starts. They’re best avoided. The fact that plastic mulches don't naturally degrade is one of their disadvantages. Unlike organic mulches that decompose and enrich the soil, plastic mulches must be replaced periodically, which can be a costly practice that also has environmental ramifications.

When this is done, there is less chance of weeds and desirable plants competing for resources like water and nutrients, reducing the need for manual weeding throughout the garden and reducing the amount of time and energy it takes to maintain. Do not follow the usual trends that have been overdone time and again. Go for a more unique, rougher look that stands out. Mixing fir and redwood gives you an unusual, aesthetically pleasant mulch unlike you have ever seen. What might be something that no one else ever thought of could be the reason you benefit the most. There is probably no better way to control water runoff from sloped areas or gardens exposed to water runoff than using this method. This may sound great for some gardeners, but the truth is, the longer mulch takes to break down, the more toxins it starts to gather. Mulching also prevents dry spots from developing. Bare or thinly mulched areas lose moisture fastest. Maintaining an even 2-3 inch layer keeps the soil protected consistently. This allows the entire bed to retain moisture at the same rate. Dry spots won’t form, reducing the need to frequently target water to problem areas. Regulating Soil Temperature

Depending on the quality of the material there is a possibility of introducing weeds, pests and diseases to the garden and, with woodchips there is a slight risk of introducing honey fungus. When spreading mulch, take care not to excessively pile mulch up tree trunks and around plant crowns. Vegetable gardens are particularly sensitive with this. Excess mulch traps in moisture and invites rot, insects, and rodents. It also reduces needed air flow. Water the mulch: After applying the new mulch, be sure to water it well to help it settle into place and begin providing the desired benefits. It is important to keep the mulch consistently moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent it from drying out or washing away.Plastic mulches, as the name suggests, are mulches made of various plastics. Plastic mulches offer benefits such as preventing compacted soil, increasing heat and water retention, and protecting against weeds. Like other synthetic mulches, plastic mulches tend to last longer because they do not decompose. Mulch also helps reduce exposure to heat from the sun, again because it acts as an insulating layer between the soil and the elements. Too much exposure to the sun can dry out the soil which can reduce the amount of water that can penetrate the soil, which in turn increases erosion due to wind. Also, heavy rain can carry away topsoil if it is not covered with mulch, stripping away vital organic matter and nutrients that are beneficial to plant growth. Mulch can increase moisture retention After applying the mulch, be sure to water it well to help it settle into place and begin providing the desired benefits. It is important to keep the mulch consistently moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent it from drying out or washing away. 5. Refresh the Mulch Of course, the cost of natural mulch can range in price drastically depending on what type of wood it’s made from. As you turn mulch, also be diligent about pulling any weeds that have poked through. Removing invaders before they go to seed prevents future weed problems. Raking up spent foliage in fall also removes potential weed seeds. Spot Applications