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.