Unlike many other types of organic mulch, cedar mulch decomposes slowly, taking years to break down, so it needs to be replenished less frequently. This can be a huge bonus for the busy gardener and save on gardening costs over time. Cedar chip mulch is best used in beds that contain larger plants, bushes and trees due to its heavy, dense nature. The spread of mulch should generally be around 2-4 inches in depth. Cedar mulch creates an airy, light layer over soil making it a very attractive feature for landscapers.
Natural pest control
The resins in shredded cedar mulch emits a pleasant scent from its naturally occurring oils. Anyone who has a cedar closet or dresser drawers lined with cedar knows that cedar has pesticide properties and may keep certain types of insects away from plants.
Encourages Earthworms to Move In
Using organic material for mulching can encourage earthworms to occupy your garden soil. And as any good gardener will tell you, earthworms help improve soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Finishing Touches
Covering bare patches of earth around trees and surrounding paths with cedar bark gives your garden a landscaped look and is very easy to maintain. Cedar bark is particularly beautiful with its color ranging from deep red to grey as it ages. The various size chips also add a solid texture enhancing the look of your landscaping.
Cedar Bark and Weed Control
Weeds are a pesky nuisance to any busy gardener and can be largely suppressed using cedar bark as mulch. Cedar coverage controls the sprouting of weed seeds as they need light and warm soil to grow. To use mulch as a natural weed barrier, you need to spread approximately a 3-inch layer.
Act as moisture retainers
Since the shredded bark is organic, it will help absorb water from the environment. Maintaining moisture in your soil will be useful during hot, dry seasons. An added plus is that it can also reduce the rate of evaporation and help to insulate your soil from extreme heat and cold. This will be a great benefit to your skyrocketing water bill during the scorching summer months.
Here are some beautiful examples of the use of cedar bark in landscaping your garden:
Shredded Cedar Bark is available from Green Solutions and More at $18/yard.