Bark Mulch vs Pine Straw – Which Mulch Do I Choose?

Written by Corrina Thursday, 24 February 2011 21:36

Mulch is a necessary component for gardening as it provides nutrients, insulation, and moisture for plant roots.  When regularly and liberally applied in spring and fall, nutrients in the mulch breakdown and release into the soil, thus supporting healthy root growth.  While mulch protects plant roots from extreme hot and cold weather conditions, it allows proper air circulation so roots can breathe carbon dioxide and absorb other environmental elements needed to survive.

Mulch also retains moisture for the plant roots and soil and prevents evaporated water loss.  On top of everything, mulch helps keep the weeds away! When the benefits of mulch abound, the question is “what type of mulch should I use?”

Technically, mulch is any type of material that is placed over the soil in a garden and can be natural or artificial.  Rocks, stones, rubber, shredded bark, and pine straw are all examples of mulch. Though rocks, stones, and rubber will help retain moisture, they do not offer the nutritional benefits of organic bark and pine straw and they attract heat.

Other natural mulch includes grass clippings and leaves; however, grass clippings and leaves are not the most attractive or stable choice and are best used when placed beneath a heavier blanket of mulch.  Bark and pine straw is the most commonly used natural mulch – they are easy to find, reasonably priced, good for the environment, and aesthetically pleasing.

If you’re not sure whether you want bark or pine straw, here are some tips to help you make your decision.