Rocks VS Mulch: Which To Use

Feb 24th 2021

When it comes to landscaping, an important aspect to consider goes beyond the types of greenery and plants best to use. Even in personal gardens, the difference between using landscaping rock or mulch can be bigger than just how it looks.

To help you decide between mulch vs rock, Evergreen Lawn Care is reviewing the pros and cons of both to determine which is best for your needs.

For expert lawn care services for commercial and residential properties, contact Evergreen Lawn Care today to request a free estimate!

Curb Appeal

Curb appeal depends on the land you’re working with and your personal preferences. Fresh mulch can be just as eye-catching as rock. However, mulch can lose its vibrancy over time, and typically speaking, rock usually provides greater variety when it comes to choosing types and colors. On properties without plant beds, rocks can be an easy way to spruce up the area while providing better drainage. If you want to increase your resale curb appeal, there are many aspects to choose that fit in almost any budget.

Cost

The initial cost of landscape rock will end up being approximately two to three times the amount of landscaping mulch. However, it’s important to remember that the lifespan of rock far outweighs mulch, which will break down into the soil over time, requiring a re-application of the mulch. So, while you may pay more for rock upfront, you will probably end up paying more for mulch over the same span of time. Contact us to receive a quote for all of our landscaping mulch.

Maintenance

Because mulch fades over time and disintegrates into the soil, homeowners and business owners usually opt to replace it at least once a year, sometimes twice a year, to keep their landscape looking pristine. On the other hand, the most maintenance that rock requires is occasional power washing to remove dirt and grime. However, if you have many trees in the vicinity that drop leaves and sticks, be aware that this debris will accumulate in rocks rather than mixing with and degrading in the mulch. Also, rocks require a fabric weed barrier underneath to help prevent weeds from growing through.

Helping Plants

While on the surface, it may seem like rocks are the better choice for landscaping, most plants, especially flowering plants, will thrive better in mulch. That’s because while mulch breaks down into the soil, it is providing extra nutrients that your plants are loving. However, some native Florida plants, such as succulents and cacti, require less maintenance and grow perfectly well in rock.