Mulch Matters: How to Choose the Right Type for Your Landscaping Project?

When it comes to landscaping, mulch often doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves. But trust us—it’s more than just a pretty finishing touch. The right mulch can help your soil retain moisture, suppress weeds, regulate temperature, and even improve the overall health of your garden. But with so many types out there—bark, rubber, wood chips, and more—it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out what works best.

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Whether you’re a seasoned landscaper or a weekend warrior looking to spruce up your backyard, here’s your guide to picking the perfect mulch for your next project.

Organic vs. Inorganic Mulch: What’s the Difference?

First things first, mulch falls into two main categories: organic and inorganic.

• Organic mulch includes natural materials like bark, wood chips, straw, and even compost. These types of mulch break down over time, enriching your soil with nutrients.
• Inorganic mulch includes options like rubber, plastic, or gravel. They don’t decompose, which means less maintenance—but also fewer soil benefits.

Knowing the difference helps you match the mulch to the purpose.

Wood Chips: Budget-Friendly and Natural

Best for:

Pathways, playgrounds, and informal garden areas

Wood chips are a versatile and cost-effective option. They tend to be chunkier than bark mulch, which makes them perfect for high-traffic areas.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Natural look
• Great for suppressing weeds

Cons:

• Can rob nitrogen from the soil if mixed in
• May attract insects if not treated

Rubber Mulch: Durable and Low Maintenance

Best for:

Playgrounds, walkways, and commercial landscaping

Rubber mulch doesn’t break down, so it’s perfect if you want a “set it and forget it” option. It also provides great cushioning, making it ideal for play areas.

Pros:

• Doesn’t decompose
• Excellent for drainage
• Long lifespan

Cons:

• Doesn’t improve soil health
• Can retain heat
• Pricier than organic options

Gravel Mulch: A Modern Look with Minimal Effort

 

Best for:

Xeriscaping, driveways, and contemporary gardens

Want something sleek and stylish? Gravel mulch is where it’s at. It offers a clean, low-maintenance solution that’s perfect for modern landscapes. Plus, it won’t blow away or break down over time.

Pros:

• Extremely durable
• Prevents weed growth
• Great for drainage

Cons:

• No nutritional benefit to soil
• Can get hot under the sun

If you’re leaning toward gravel for your mulch project, we offer fast and reliable gravel delivery in Toronto. Our team can help you find the perfect style and size to match your landscape vision, and guide you in choosing the right type of gravel for your landscaping project based on function, aesthetics, and budget.

📊Quick Comparison Chart

Type	Organic	Soil Benefits	Low Maintenance	Best Use
Bark Mulch	✅	✅	❌	Flower beds
Wood Chips	✅	✅ (over time)	❌	Pathways, trees
Rubber Mulch	❌	❌	✅	Playgrounds
Gravel	❌	❌	✅	Modern landscapes

🤔 Still Not Sure? Here’s How to Choose

1. Consider your landscape goals. Do you want a lush garden bed or a sleek modern vibe?
2. Think about maintenance. Organic mulch needs refreshing; inorganic doesn’t.
3. Check the weather. In windy or rainy areas, heavier mulch like gravel or rubber holds up better.
4. Keep the plants in mind. Some mulches are better suited for vegetable gardens, while others work well around trees and shrubs.

📞 Need Help or a Quick Delivery?

We’re here to make your landscaping project as smooth as possible. Whether you’re picking up a few bags or ordering in bulk, we offer gravel delivery in Toronto that’s quick, efficient, and tailored to your schedule.

Call us today at 647-868-2447 or get in touch to place your order or ask us for mulch recommendations based on your unique project.

At We Deliver Gravel, we believe a beautiful yard starts with the right foundation—and that includes the right mulch.