Fresh Mulch from Arborist Job
Organic mulches consist of natural plant-produced materials such as branches, twigs, dead wood, bark, wood chips, leaves, pine needles, grass clippings, fruits and flowers to name a few. There are also inorganic mulches too (like gravel, pebbles, plastic, fabric) which also serve a purpose but are less environment friendly than organics. The main difference between organic and inorganic mulches is that organic mulches breakdown over time, releasing nutrients into the soil and will require replacement every few years.
Arborist Mulch
Mulch from an arborist varies according to the trees being removed, or the land being cleared. You can contact your local arborist and ask them what fresh mulch they are supplying over the coming weeks. They often will give you the best price for premium mulch compared to buying it from a nursery, and on occasion they will be able to offer less-than-premium mulch that they would be selling at a discounted price that would be a nominal fee for labour and transport costs. Some common types of mulch that arborists produce include;
Fresh Mulch
Consists mainly of bark, pine needles, leaves, and wood chip. It should be spread in a 2 to 3 inch layer and is effective as weed control. It is best to let it rest for a week allowing it to be less green before spreading across your garden. It is an attractive, pleasant smelling, green-coloured mulch. Some bark may float in water and relocate during heavy rains, but most water will penetrate through the mulch easily. It is excellent for providing nutrients to trees, shrubs and palms and will attract an assortment of garden loving insects.
Grass clipping drying in a compost bin
DIY Home Composting
Normal household and garden waste can be used as mulch in your garden. If you can’t reduce you waste, at least you can reuse and recycle! You have to be careful to select non-seeding organic matter for use as compost mulch. If seeds are included they will likely germinate and take over your garden. Compost normally starts with leftovers such as vegetables, meat scraps (keep away from house they get stinky), dead flowers, and other wasted foods. These can be mixed in with grass clippings that form a good bulk and based. The grass clippings will decompose rapidly adding nutrients back into the soil. Dry grass should be used instead of fresh clippings, and never use grass clippings from a lawn that has had an herbicide treatment. Leaves from deciduous trees and from your pools skimmer box can also be used. Whole leaves have a tendency of being blown by the wind so it is best to shrew the leaves using a shredder or your lawn mower. Leaves will last longer than grass, and also improve the soil as they decompose. Some types of leaves will chance the acidity of the soil (normally for the better) but it is good to check the PH of the soil regularly. Compost should be added to your garden beds in a 8 to 12 cm (3 to 4 inch) layers for optimum benefits. It will need replacing every 6 to 12 months.
Written by Sydney Tree Removals