Mulch Vs. Rocks: Which Is the Better Ground Cover?

Mulch Vs. Rocks: Which Is the Better Ground Cover?

Ground covers make a great addition to any landscape! Mulch and rock are two of the most common types of ground covers found in Illinois. They both offer a wide variety of benefits for your landscape such as weed prevention, soil erosion control, soil temperature regulation, and moisture retention. Where they differ is mostly rooted in aesthetics. However, mulch has the added benefit of releasing nutrients into your soil, while rocks don’t need to be replaced that often. So, which one is better? It’s hard to say because they offer similar benefits, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Continue reading to learn more about each type of ground cover, and then you can decide which one is best for you!

What are the benefits of using a mulch ground cover?

There are several benefits to installing a mulch ground cover on your landscape. Mulch offers protection against weeds for starters. It acts as a barrier, making it harder for the sun to reach your soil, which can drastically reduce the weed population since they need sunlight to grow. Additionally, mulch will help with erosion by protecting your soil from natural elements that commonly displace it like wind and rain. Mulch also helps regulate soil temperatures and retain moisture in your soil. It works as an insulator against the elements, preventing your soil from experiencing drastic temperature changes. And it retains moisture because it keeps the sun from drying up your soil, meaning you don’t even need to water your plants as much. On top of all this, mulch will release nutrients back into your soil as it decomposes, making it the perfect option when you want to give your plants a constant stream of nutrients.

What are the benefits of using a rock ground cover?

Rock ground covers offer the same benefits as mulch ground covers such as weed prevention, soil erosion control, temperature regulation, and moisture retention. The only thing a rock ground cover doesn’t do is release nutrients back into the soil. However, rocks don’t need to be replenished as often as mulch. Rocks tend to last much longer than mulch, so they're perfect for those looking for more long-term coverage. You only need to change them when their colors start to fade, and you want to give your landscape a fresh look. Rock ground covers also offer more colors to choose from, meaning you have more options to personalize the look of your landscape beds.

Will a mulch or rock ground cover better suit your landscape?

When deciding between a mulch or rock ground cover, it mostly comes down to personal preference—neither one is better than the other. Both offer similar benefits with the main differences being that mulch releases nutrients back into your soil while rocks don’t need to be replenished as often. You ultimately want to go with the option you feel will better suit your landscape!

Looking to protect your landscape? Call us today to have a mulch or rock ground cover installed in your landscape beds!

Whether you decide to go with a mulch or a rock ground cover, they both offer a variety of benefits for your landscape beds and the plants in them. At Creekside Landscapes, we offer a variety of both mulch and rock ground covers, so you can choose the option that meets your particular preference. We service commercial, HOA, and residential properties in Edwardsville, IL, and surrounding cities like Glen Carbon and Bethalto. Give us a call today at (618) 374-0010 to have a mulch or rock ground cover installed in your landscape beds.