Is it Better to Use Mulch or Decorative Rocks for Landscaping?

Landscaping prevents the growth of weeds, reduces soil erosion, and it gives your space curb appeal. Are you looking for the best landscaping options for your property, and are torn between mulch landscaping and decorative rocks? Well, here is a detailed look at both options.

What is the difference between these two?

Mulch consists of organic matter like grass, whereas decorative rocks consist of gravel and rock mulch.

How about weed control?

Weeds do not grow through rocks the same way they survive in organic mulch because as they sprout, the rocks suffocate them. Hence, with a weed barrier between the soil and the decorative rocks landscaping, it is easier to maintain a lawn, and the cost of weed control is lower.

However, unlike decorative rocks, mulch does not need a weed barrier because the layer of mulch prevents weeds from growing.

Which material is good for the soil and the garden plants?

Mulch keeps the soil moisture levels high and decreases the amount of water needed to water a flowerbed. It also breaks down into organic manure that adds nutrients to the soil. Additionally, mulch is a protective layer over the roots, thereby keeping them warm or cool depending on the prevailing weather conditions.

Which one is cost-effective?

Unlike mulch, which needs regular replacement in about one to four years, rocks are long lasting. Mulch decomposes very fast, but rocks serve a homeowner until the decision to replace the landscape design. Would you prefer to spend on landscaping every year or spend a one-time cost? With decorative rocks, you spend money on landscaping only once.

Further, rocks withstand high traffic in areas like pathways. On the other hand, mulch wilts more so when in humid areas with high traffic.

Which one has aesthetic appeal?

The truth is that rocks have better curb appeal because they come in different colors, shapes, and sizes. Therefore, a homeowner can get as creative as possible when looking for a landscape design or in choosing the decorative rocks. 

On the contrary, organic mulch has one color, and it is impossible to customize mulch to fit the rest of the landscaping features.

In drier locations prone to wildfires, rocks are the preferred landscaping material, and they do not wilt even when in constant exposure to rain and the sun.

Need Professional Landscaping Services?

Talk to Concrete & Landscaping Company in High Desert and Inland Empire, CA, for expert advice on the best solution for your lawn.

We offer both mulch landscaping and decorative rocks, and we serve the High Desert areas like Victorville, Apple Valley, Hesperia, and Spring Valley Lake. We also landscape for clients in Jess Ranch, Adelanto, Helendale, Pinon Hills, and Barstow, Baldy Mesa, Oak Hills, and Phelan.

In the Inland Empire area, we go all the way to Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, and Fontana, Ontario, Rialto, Redlands, and Chino.

For Concrete Curbing HD services, get assistance from experts at Concrete & Landscaping Company in High Desert and Inland Empire, CA, by calling us today! Tel: (760) 486-7709.
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