Choosing the right type of mulch for your gardens is a tough but important decision. The wrong mulch can not only have a drastic effect on how your home looks overall but can also have other negative effects such as being less insulating and not repelling insects as well as other mulches.

Use our mulch guide to help you make an informed decision on the best mulch for your gardens and flowerbeds.

Things to Consider When Choosing Your Mulch

Here are a few of the most important considerations when deciding between different colours and types of mulch, and which will be the most effective for your landscape:

- House Colour. Of course, the colour of your home is one of the first things you should consider when it comes to choosing from different types of mulch. There isn’t a definite answer about what mulch colour to pick based on your brick, but you should think about your brick or siding colour when you are choosing a mulch in terms of whether you want it to contrast or complement your home. Do you want the mulch to act as an extension of the house in a similar colour, or provide a striking contrast (such as black mulch against red bricks)?

- Plant Colour. Many people consider the colour of their house when choosing mulch but forget to think about the impact of plant colour. Red mulches, for example, complement green foliage, while black mulch offers a beautiful contrast against colourful florals.

- Patio Furniture and Other Accent Colours. Patio furniture and other accent colours such as shutters are something else that can be taken into consideration from a decorating perspective. Try and maintain a holistic view of the home when deciding which mulch colour will look best and keep those accent pieces in mind, particularly for areas that will be most visible to visitors.

- Sun Fading. The truth is that most mulches are going to fade from sun exposure over time. However, to avoid fading, pine bark is the best for holding its colour.

- Insulating Properties. Beyond adding an aesthetically pleasing finish to your gardens, mulch also insulates the soil and adds nutrients. Black mulch is particularly good for insulation as it absorbs and holds the sunlight.

- Insect Control. Believe it or not, the type of mulch you choose can have an effect on insect control. Yellow and black mulches have been found to attract insects more than other colours. While cedar and hemlock mulch have a natural scent that repels certain insects.

Have more questions about choosing different mulch types and colours? Contact the experts at Van Beek’s Landscape Supply today, we’d be happy to speak with you about all of your mulch needs.