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Choosing the Right Mulch Colors for Your Lawn and Garden

When it comes to landscaping, mulch is more than just the unsung hero that keeps weeds at bay and your plants hydrated. It’s also an easy way to add a pop of personality to your outdoor spaces. The right mulch colors can tie your garden together, adding an aesthetic appeal to your outdoor space. Let us be your guide on your journey to choose the perfect mulch colors that complement your home and garden. 

5 Steps to Choose the Right Mulch Colors for Your Lawn and Garden

Step 1: Consider Your Home’s Aesthetic 

Your mulch should be the Robin to your home’s Batman, providing subtle support without stealing the show. Think of your mulch as the frame for your garden masterpiece. It should complement your home without overpowering it. 

Here are some quick tips: 

• If your home is brick, stone, or painted in earthy hues, opt for brown mulch. Versatile and warm, brown mulch blends beautifully with nature. 

• Black mulch is sleek and sophisticated, perfect for homes with contemporary designs, gray siding, or industrial finishes. 

• Red mulch works wonders with tan or neutral homes, adding a bold contrast that highlights your greenery. 

Step 2: Match Mulch to Your Plants 

Let’s be honest. Plants are the real stars of the show, so your mulch color should highlight their natural beauty. 

• Have bright green foliage? Black mulch creates a striking contrast, making green plants stand out like emeralds on velvet. 

• If your garden is full of flowers, highlight them by pairing them with neutral brown mulch to avoid clashing colors. 

Pro Tip: If your garden has a mix of colors, stick with a neutral mulch to keep the focus on your plants. 

Step 3: Factor in Practical Needs 

Mulch isn’t just about looks. Different colors can have practical benefits, too: 

• Black mulch retains heat, which can help warm up your soil in early spring—perfect for jump-starting your garden. 

• Red mulch is heavier and less likely to wash away, making it a great choice for slopes and controlling erosion. 

• Brown mulch is forgiving, masking debris like fallen leaves and twigs better than its counterparts. 

Step 4: Think About Longevity 

Mulch fades over time, so choose a color that will age gracefully. Greendell's premium dyed mulches are designed to resist fading longer, keeping your garden looking fresh and fabulous. 

Step 5: Test Before You Commit 

Not sure which color is right? Try a small patch of each mulch color in your garden to see how it looks at different times of the day. Light and shadows can dramatically change the appearance of mulch. 

Find Your Mulch Match! 

At Greendell, we offer top-quality mulch in a variety of colors to suit every landscape. Our products are sustainably sourced, fade-resistant, and tailored to meet both aesthetic and practical needs. Whether you’re going for rustic charm or modern flair, find your mulch match with us. Because remember, empty beds are NO fun. 

by PLAID

The Best Mulch for Controlling Weeds

Mulch is your garden’s guard, keeping weeds out, moisture in, and your plants thriving. If you’re tired of battling stubborn weeds, it’s time to find the perfect mulch match for your garden. This spring, say goodbye to your garden’s intruders to control weeds (and keep your garden looking fabulous). Here are 4 of the best mulch options to protect your garden’s plants and beauty.  

The Best Mulch for Controlling Weeds

Wood Chips: 

Wood chips are like the bouncers of your garden. Without sunlight, weeds struggle to germinate and grow, making these chunky warriors the best suppressants for weeds. Wood chips create a thick, sun-blocking barrier and decompose slowly, ensuring you enjoy long-lasting weed control without constant reapplication. Not to mention, they’re great for adding a natural, polished look to your garden beds. 

Need an extra layer of weed protection? Add a weed barrier fabric underneath the wood chips. 

Straw: 

Straw is a lightweight champion for vegetable gardens. By forming a dense yet breathable cover, straw prevents weed seeds from reaching the soil and germinating. Its airy structure allows water and nutrients to pass through to your plants while keeping weeds at bay. 

Compost: 

Compost mulch earns its reputation by doing double duty. A thick layer of compost smothers weed seeds while enriching the soil with essential nutrients. As it breaks down, compost mulch improves soil structure and supports healthy plant growth, creating a garden environment where weeds struggle to compete. 

Shredded Hardwood Mulch:

Shredded hardwood mulch is your garden’s reliable all-season defender. Its fine texture creates a tightly knit barrier that blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, stopping them in their tracks. As it decomposes, shredded hardwood mulch also enriches your soil, improving moisture retention and providing nutrients to support healthy plant growth. Might we even say hardwood mulch is the best of the best? Order yours today and see for yourself! 

Mulch Matchmaker: Finding Your Perfect Fit 

Each type of mulch has its own strengths when it comes to fighting weeds. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a perfect fit for your garden. Choose your mulch wisely and give weeds the ultimate knockout. 

We can help. Come see us at our showroom or order your mulch online today for the best mulch in town! 

by PLAID

3 Types of Mulch (and Where to Use Them)

When it comes to sprucing up your yard, mulch is like the cherry on top of a landscaping sundae. Not only does it make your outdoor spaces look polished, but it also works hard behind the scenes—keeping your plants healthy, soil happy, and weeds at bay. With so many types of mulch to choose from, how do you know which is the best fit for your garden? Don't worry—we’re here to help. Let’s get our hands dirty with these 3 types of mulch and the best places to use them: 

3 Types of Mulch (and Where to Use Them)

1. Shredded Hardwood Mulch 

Shredded hardwood mulch is a versatile and eco-friendly choice that serves multiple purposes in your landscaping. As it decomposes, it gradually releases nutrients into the soil, enriching it over time. Its dense composition helps suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes of all sizes. 

Where to use it: 

• Flower beds: This mulch’s natural, earthy tones complement vibrant blooms without overpowering them. 

• Around trees and shrubs: Shredded hardwood is ideal for insulating and protecting roots in varying weather conditions. 

• Pathways: These types of mulch create a clean and polished look while naturally breaking down over time. 

2. Sof-Step Playground Mulch

Sof-Step playground mulch is specifically engineered for safety and comfort, making it ideal for areas where kids play. Made from finely shredded wood, this mulch is softer underfoot than traditional options, cushioning falls and meeting safety standards for playground surfaces. It also offers excellent drainage and resists compaction, ensuring long-lasting performance. 

Where to use it: 

• Playgrounds and recreational spaces: Sof-Step provides a cushioned surface to minimize injuries in play areas. Add these types of mulch to recreational, public, or private play areas for a safe, durable surface. 

3. Dyed Mulch (Black, Brown, or Red)

For homeowners who want their landscaping to stand out, dyed mulch is a fantastic option. Available in bold colors like black, brown, and red, dyed mulch holds its color longer than natural alternatives. This helps maintain a fresh, vibrant appearance for months, even in high-traffic areas or under intense sunlight. 

Where to use it: 

• Front yards: Dyed mulch offers bold hues that create eye-catching curb appeal from the front yard. 

• Walkways and driveways: Creating a contrast in color, a dark dyed mulch highlights the structure and design of pathways. 

• Garden borders: These types of mulch add definition and contrast to landscaping elements, making your flowers and shrubs stand out. 

Mulch Matchmaker: Making the Right Choice 

Now that you’ve met the mulch family, it’s time to pick your perfect match. After all, empty beds are NO fun. Greendell is here to help––let us be your matchmaker. We’ll deliver directly to you. Your dream yard is just a mulch pile away. 

by PLAID

How to Get Rid of Common Garden Weeds with Mulch

Weeds: the uninvited guests that just won’t leave. But don’t worry. There’s a clever way to keep those pesky common garden weeds at bay without breaking your back or your budget: mulch! Yes, that trusty, often overlooked garden hero can save the day. Here's your simple, step-by-step guide on how to use mulch to send weeds packing, and give your garden that polished, pristine look you’ve been dreaming of.

How to Get Rid of Common Garden Weeds

Step 1: Get the Right Mulch

First things first—it’s essential to choose the best kind for your garden. Greendell offers a range of mulches that not only look great but also do wonders for your soil (and your weed problem).

Why choose our mulch? It’s more than just eye candy. Our mulch helps retain moisture, regulates soil temperature, and, best of all, acts as an impenetrable barrier to weeds. A little goes a long way, and with our mulch delivery service, you’ll have it delivered straight to your door—no sweat.

Step 2: Clear the Area

Before you start laying down your mulch, you need a clean slate. While it’s tempting to toss mulch directly over the weeds, we promise it’ll be more effective if you do some prep work first.

• Pull existing weeds. Get your hands dirty and pull out as many weeds as possible, roots and all. The fewer weeds that remain, the better your results.
• Mow down tall weeds. If there are any stubborn weeds hanging around that you can’t get with your hands, give them a quick mow. You don’t need to make your garden look like a golf course, just trim down those tall invaders.
• Consider laying down landscaping fabric. For extra protection, you can use landscaping fabric to provide an additional layer of defense between the soil and the mulch. It’s like a secret weapon against weeds—think of it as mulch’s sidekick.

Step 3: Apply the Mulch (The Fun Part!)

Now for the fun part—putting down your mulch! Here’s how to do it right:

• Spread evenly. Use a rake or your hands (or both!) to spread a 2–3-inch layer of mulch across your garden beds. Make sure the mulch is evenly distributed to avoid patchy spots.
• Don’t pile up against plants. Keep mulch away from the stems or trunks of your plants and trees. You don’t want to suffocate them! Aim for a good, uniform layer around your plants, but leave a small gap near the base.
• Add a little extra mulch around weeds: For weeds that just won’t die, give them a little extra mulch love. Pile on a bit more mulch in those spots to ensure they get the message that it’s game over.

Step 4: Relax and Let Mulch Work Its Magic

Once the mulch is in place, kick back and enjoy the view. Your garden is now protected. The mulch will create a dense barrier that blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, preventing them from germinating. And, because it retains moisture, your plants won’t have to compete with weeds for water—it's a win-win!

Ready to Say Goodbye to Weeds? Let Greendell Help!

Getting rid of weeds doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right mulch, a little elbow grease, and some expert help, you’ll have your garden looking beautiful and weed-free in no time. Let’s get to work –– order Greendell mulch today to get started!

by PLAID

Mulch Landscaping Ideas: The Dos and Don’ts of Mulching

Mulch season is here, folks! It's that magical time of year when your yard gets a fresh coat of color, texture, and protection from the harsh elements. Want to get your mulching right this season? Here are a few key mulch landscaping ideas to start mulch season strong.

Mulch Landscaping Ideas—the Do’s and Don’ts of Mulching

Do Choose the Right Mulch for Your Garden

Mulch is not one-size-fits-all. There’s an entire world of mulch out there. When selecting mulch, consider your plant types, soil needs, and aesthetic preferences. Musselman offers a variety of mulch options to suit every need, ensuring your garden gets the perfect topping.

Don’t Pile Mulch Around Tree Trunks (No Mulch Volcanoes!)

We’ve all seen it—those towering mulch piles around tree trunks that resemble little volcanoes. While they may look harmless, they can actually harm your trees by trapping moisture and causing root rot. Instead, keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk and spread it evenly around the base.

Do Mulch Before the Heat Hits

Timing is everything! Mulch works its best when applied before summer’s scorching sun arrives. This helps insulate the soil and reduce water evaporation. So, don’t wait until your garden is in full bloom to get mulching—start early, and your plants will thank you!

Don’t Ignore the Soil Underneath

Mulch is a wonderful addition, but it can’t do it all on its own. Before you start mulching, make sure your soil is healthy and ready to thrive. Amend your soil with compost or organic matter as needed. A healthy soil foundation is key to long-lasting mulch success.

Do Mulch in the Right Amount

You don’t need a mountain of mulch to make a difference, but you do need enough to help your plants thrive. Aim for a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch. Any more, and you risk smothering your plants. Any less, and you won’t reap the full benefits.

Don’t Mulch in the Rain

While a little drizzle is fine, heavy rain can turn mulch into a soggy mess. Wet mulch can compact, making it less effective at retaining moisture and potentially harming your plants. Wait for a dry day to spread your mulch, and it will stay in place and perform at its best.

Do Refresh Your Mulch Regularly

Mulch can break down over time, losing its color and effectiveness. To keep your garden looking fresh and vibrant, give it a mulch refresh every year. This also helps maintain its moisture retention and weed-blocking abilities.

Find Your Mulch Match at Greendell!

At Greendell, we believe mulch should do more than just look good—it should work hard for your garden, too. That’s why we offer premium-quality mulch that helps retain moisture, improve soil health, and, of course, add a touch of beauty to your landscape. Empty beds are NO fun. Contact Greendell today for expert advice and mulch delivery! Happy mulching!

by PLAID

The Benefits of Mulch: Why Your Garden Will Thank You

If your garden could talk, it would say, “More mulch, please!” Okay, maybe not in so many words, but mulching truly is one of the best things you can do for your plants. In fact, the benefits of mulch go far beyond making your outdoor spaces look polished and professional. 

And, as mulch experts, we know a thing or two about why mulch is the MVP of garden care. Let’s break down why mulching is the ultimate garden game-changer and why you’ll want to stock up this season. 

7 Essential Benefits of Mulch

1. Mulch Keeps Weeds in Check

Weeds are the uninvited guests at your garden party. But mulch helps create a barrier between sunlight and soil, preventing weed seeds from sprouting. That means less time pulling weeds and more time admiring your handiwork. 

• A Greendell Tip: Lay down 2-3 inches of mulch for optimal weed control. Too much mulch, and those pesky weeds might sneak through. 

2. Mulch Makes Moisture Management Easy

Your plants love water, but too much evaporation can leave them high and dry. Mulch acts like a sponge, helping the soil retain moisture and reducing the need for frequent watering. It’s a win-win for your plants and your water bill. 

• A Greendell Tip: Organic mulches like wood chips or shredded bark are particularly good at locking in moisture while breaking down over time to enrich your soil.

3. Mulch Regulates Soil Temperature

Just like a good jacket, mulch helps your soil stay cozy in the winter and cool in the summer. This temperature regulation protects plant roots from extreme weather changes, keeping your garden healthier year-round. 

• A Greendell Tip: Fall and winter are great times to add a thicker layer of mulch to protect your plants from freeze-thaw cycles. 

4. Mulch Improves Soil Health

Think of mulch as a multivitamin for your garden. As organic mulches decompose, they release nutrients into the soil, improving its structure and fertility. Healthier soil means healthier plants. 

• A Greendell Tip: Use high-quality mulch to maximize these soil-enriching benefits. We’ve got you covered with premium options. 

5. Mulch Reduces Erosion

Heavy rain can wash away your soil, but mulch steps in as a protective shield. By covering bare soil, mulch minimizes the impact of raindrops and reduces the risk of erosion. 

• A Greendell Tip: For sloped gardens, apply mulch carefully and secure it with landscaping fabric or netting for extra stability. 

6. Mulch Boosts Curb Appeal

Mulch isn’t just functional; it’s fashionable! A fresh layer of mulch instantly upgrades the look of your garden beds, giving your outdoor space a polished, professional appearance. With different colored mulches, you can even customize your garden’s aesthetic. 

• A Greendell Tip: Refresh your mulch annually to keep it looking vibrant and fresh. We can help you choose the perfect type for your landscape design. 

7. Mulch Prevents Soil Compaction

Compacted soil can stifle plant growth, but mulch creates a cushion that absorbs the weight of foot traffic and heavy rain. This helps keep your soil light and airy, perfect for strong root development. 

• A Greendell Tip: Apply mulch evenly and avoid piling it too close to plant stems or trunks to prevent rot. 

Find Your Mulch Match with Musselman! 

At Greendell, we’re not just passionate about mulch—we’re experts. Let’s make this mulch season the best one yet. Order your mulch delivery today or schedule a consultation at our showroom to make your mulch selection. We promise—your garden will thank you. 

by PLAID

When to Mulch to Help Your Garden Thrive

Mulch—the unsung hero of gardens everywhere. You might think it’s just a fancy word for bark chips, but mulch is so much more. It’s your garden’s cozy blanket, its all-weather armor, and its secret sauce for thriving plants. But when it comes to mulching, timing is everything. Apply mulch at the wrong time, and you could do more harm than good. Don't worry. We’re here to guide you on when to mulch throughout the year to help your garden thrive.

When to Mulch: A Guide for Every Season

Spring: Mulch’s Time to Shine

Spring is the superstar season for mulching. As the soil warms up from its winter slumber, adding mulch helps retain warmth while keeping weeds from making an unwelcome appearance.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Wait for the thaw: If the ground is still frozen, hold off on mulching. Trapping cold soil beneath a layer of mulch can delay plant growth.
• Clean house: Clear away any old mulch, debris, or leftover leaves before laying down a fresh layer. Think of it as a spring cleaning for your garden beds.
• Spread wisely: Aim for about 2-3 inches of mulch. Too much, and your plants will suffocate. Too little, and weeds will have the last laugh.

Want to get a head start on your mulching? Order bulk delivery today.

Summer: Mulch as the Garden’s Sunscreen

As summer heats up, mulch steps up as your garden’s personal SPF. It keeps the soil cool, locks in moisture, and prevents your plants from drying out. If you mulched in spring, you’re golden! Just check if it needs a little top-up to maintain that protective layer. Remember, summer is about maintenance, not overhauls.

Fall: Mulching’s Undercover Operation

Fall mulching is less about show-stopping blooms and more about prepping your garden for the winter.

Here’s what to do:

• Wait for the drop: After the first hard frost, add a layer of mulch to insulate the soil and protect plant roots from the freeze-thaw cycles of winter.
• Go thicker: In fall, a 3–4-inch layer works best. This keeps your soil cozy without inviting pests to make a winter home.
• Use organic mulch: Materials like shredded leaves or straw work wonders as they break down over the winter and enrich your soil for spring.

Winter: To Mulch or Not to Mulch?

Winter mulching is like the cherry on top of your garden prep. If you didn’t get to it in the fall, it’s not too late to add a protective layer before the snow really piles up. Just remember: winter mulch is about insulation, not decoration. Keep it natural and focus on protecting perennials and shrubs.

Get Your Mulch Today!

As we gear up for spring, now is the time to find your mulch match with Greendell. Order ahead today to prep your spring order. Remember––empty beds are NO fun. So, grab a rake, and let mulch work its magic!

by PLAID