Landscapers - mulch questions

[Sgt_Nutz]

We use Hemlock or sometimes a Hemlock blend(cheaper, but also has pine). Cant beat the smell. Got some big a$$ red ants one year that I think came from the mulch but made short work of them. That orange cedar mulch is expensive and stains everything. If you put down plastic or something the weeds will just grow on top. Matter of fact I think they will grow no matter what you do. Little round up works. But not near any shrubs or flowers. Rake it out and turn it over once in great while and hand pick the ones that still grow. Try not to let the lawnmower discharge blow onto it as it will just seed a new batch of weeds and grass. Edging around the mulch beds helps alot. Better hurry, the fish will be here soon!

[Raven]

it can rob trees or bushes of nitrogen if you don't fertilize the bushes and trees your spreading it around...because it's only partially decomposed. It can also affect the PH...

at least with the cedar mulches around the house theres alot less desirable area for bugs near your foundation.

[spence]

You'll need to mulch every year if you use any of the shredded natural mulch...although you won't need as much after the initial application.

Estimate how much and just get a truckload...it's a lot cheaper than bags unless you only need a small amount. Pretty easy, just don't pile it up to the sill of your house!

Personally I think the dark brown mulch looks best...it's composted more than the lighter mulch and will not last as long.

-spence

[Nebe]

Id use spent cocoa shells... but i am a yuppy in redneck's clothing

[spence]

Actually I believe coccoa hulls are insect magnets...

-spence

[Nebe]

didnt know that- boy they sure smell good though

[spence]

I thought I read that somewhere...

Too expensive anyway.

-spence