Mulch vs. River Rock: Which Is Right for Your Landscape?

Mulch vs. River Rock: Which Is Right for Your Landscape?

If you're looking for a way to spruce up your landscape beds, mulch and river rock are two of the most common landscape materials that you might encounter. Both can suppress weeds, improve curb appeal, and create well-defined landscape beds; however, they each have their own benefits and drawbacks based on your desired landscape and what type of upkeep you are comfortable with.

Mulch: What Is It and Why Use It?

Mulch is an excellent option if you want to increase plant health and soil health. Organic mulches, such as hardwood, black, brown, or cedar mulch, hold moisture in the soil, help regulate soil temperature, and slowly add nutrients to the soil as it decomposes over time. Mulch is one of the cheapest landscape materials available and can be most beneficial for ornamental beds planted with shrubs, flowers, hydrangeas, and so on. It only decomposes and needs to be replaced every one or two years, so there is always upkeep involved.

River Rock: What Is It and Why Use It?

River rock provides a clean, decorative look and is generally preferred by homeowners who desire a low-maintenance landscape. Unlike mulch, river rock will not break down and has an appearance and longevity that will last for years. It's excellent for landscape beds that struggle with drainage, erosion issues, or areas around downspouts since water can move through it efficiently. This stone can contribute to a modern and clean look and can be chosen in various sizes and colors. While requiring minimal long-term upkeep, this type of stone often has a high upfront installation cost and has a tendency to absorb much more heat during summer months than mulch.

Which option is better for you?

The right choice depends on your landscape and priorities.

 Consider mulch if:

*   You want to improve the soil health of your property.

*   You have a large number of shrubs and plants.

*   You prefer a more traditional landscape appearance.

*   You want a cheaper installation cost.

Consider river rock if:

*   You want a long-lasting and low-maintenance landscape.

*   You are looking for a modern or ornamental landscape.

*   Your landscape bed struggles with downspout drainage or erosion problems.

Combining the two works well, too: Mulch often works best with plants and garden beds, while river rock can look nice in drain beds, around the foundation, near downspouts, or as accenting material.

At Holmes Lawn & Landscape, we have experts who can choose the right landscaping materials for your property style, needs, and desired upkeep. No matter if you want mulch, river rock, or both, Holmes Lawn & Landscape can help you design and build a landscape that looks beautiful, lasts for many years, and can hold up to the elements! Call Holmes Lawn & Landscape today for a free estimate, and let us show you what the right landscape choice is for your property!