Landscape beds are stunning centerpieces for your property in North Carolina, and installing a ground cover is an excellent way to enhance their aesthetic appeal. You have two fantastic options to choose from: mulch and rocks. Both provide significant benefits, including weed prevention, erosion control, soil temperature regulation, and moisture retention. The key difference between the two is that mulch decomposes over time, enriching the soil with nutrients but requiring more frequent replenishment, whereas rock does not and offers a more low-maintenance solution. Ultimately, since both options are great, the choice comes down to your personal preference and aesthetic taste.

Both mulch and rock ground covers offer similar benefits to your landscape beds.

A landscape bed with mulch ground covering on a property in Matthews, NC.

When it comes to choosing between mulch and rock ground coverings for your landscape beds, both options offer a range of benefits that can enhance their health and appearance. Mulch and rock are equally effective at preventing weeds by blocking weed seeds from reaching the soil and preventing existing ones from accessing vital resources. Additionally, both materials help control soil erosion by reducing the impact of heavy rain and wind. They also regulate soil temperature, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which can benefit the root systems of your plants. Furthermore, mulch and rock both aid in moisture retention, reducing the need for frequent watering and helping your plants thrive.

Mulch decomposes in your landscape beds, whereas rock doesn't.

One of the main differences between mulch and rock ground coverings is their decomposition process. Mulch breaks down over time, releasing nutrients into the soil as it does. While this can benefit your plants, it also means that you'll need to replenish mulch more frequently than rock.

On the other hand, rock does not decompose, so you won't need to replenish it for this reason. However, you may choose to replenish a rock ground covering whenever its color starts to fade or looks worn down to maintain the aesthetic appeal of your landscape beds. Each option has its own advantages, and the choice between mulch and rock depends on your landscaping goals and maintenance preferences.

It's recommended to replenish your mulch at least once per year but twice is optimal for plant health.

Which ground cover is better for your landscape beds - mulch or rock?

When deciding between mulch and rock ground coverings for your landscape beds, there is no definitive better option; both mulch and rocks are great options for a ground cover. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and aesthetic taste. If you're interested in an organic material that will provide your landscape beds with beneficial nutrients as it decomposes, then mulch might be the right ground cover for you. If you're looking for a low-maintenance ground cover option, then rocks may be the ideal choice for your landscape beds.

Call us to schedule our mulch or rock installation service!

Ready to enhance your landscape beds and protect your plants? Installing a mulch or rock ground covering is a fantastic way to achieve both goals, and you're in the right place! At Carolina Turf Lawn and Landscape, we specialize in both mulch and rock installation services, and our team can help you choose an option tailored to your preferences and maintenance requirements. We offer a variety of materials, including brown mulch, Tennessee rock, and pine straw, to elevate the look of your landscape beds.

We offer our mulch and rock installation services to residential and commercial property owners, along with HOAs, in Matthews, Weddington, Ballantyne, NC, and surrounding cities. Contact us today at (704) 649-0430 to schedule your mulch or rock installation and transform your landscape!