Archive for Pine Straw Installation

Does Mulch Attract Bugs?

Does Mulch Attract Bugs?

 

It’s been our experience that mulch itself does not attract bugs, but may provide a home for those already living in your garden. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing, as the majority of insects in a landscape are actually healthy for the plant material.

A layer of mulch is important for retaining moisture and those little critters will aid in the decomposition of materials that add nutrients to the soil. Something to avoid, however, is an overabundance of mulch (4 inches+). As this can retain too much moisture and potentially harm to your plants via fungus and mold.

Worms, Centipedes and earwigs are examples of insects that take up residence under mulch. These little guys help the soil by adding nutrients as they eat.  What about Termites? If termites are present under mulch, it’s usually because they were already there, as they not normally attracted the mulch itself.

Mulch Type Comparison

Mulch Type Comparison Chart

4 Benefits of Pine Straw

 

  1. Erosion Control– Pine Straw doesn’t float away during heavy rains, and

    Pine Straw Installation

    provides stability to the soil of a landscape bed.

  2. Soil Health– Pine Straw decomposes relatively quickly, providing nitrogen richnutrients to plant life.
  3. Weed Suppression – The stringy characteristics of Pine Straw act as a great weed barrier when applied at a good depth.
  4. Visually Appealing – The essence of a natural landscape look, with a rich golden hue.

5 Ways to Whack those Weeds

1.                   Apply a Pre-emergent Herbicide : A quality pre-emergent applied prior to ground cover will help nip those weeds in the bud.  Be sure to read directions carefully.
 
2.                  Layout Weed Fabric : A good barrier against weed seeds already existing in the soil.  Simply cut holes for your new plants.
 
3.                  Remove Weeds in Just Purchased Plants : Weeds love to grow in the pots of growing nursery plants, and often lay in wait for their new home.
 
4.                  Install Quality Mulch : A good 2″-3″ layer of quality mulch will help to keep weed seeds from germinating.  Not to mention help control both soil temperature and moisture.
 
5.                  Don’t Till too Often : Stirring up the soil can expose dormant seeds to sunlight, and soon they’ll be singing in the rain!

Proper Mulch Depth

  • The recommended mulching depth for organic mulches is 2 to 2.5 inches. At this depth, most mulches will accommodate the primary objectives of weed control, soil moisture conservation and temperature modification.

 

  • Mulching depths less than 2 inches may not be effective in weed control; however, mulch applied 3 to 6 inches or more can lead to serious problems for landscape plants. A mulch that is too thick may severely reduce or eliminate drying and lead to water-logged soil, particularly during wet seasons.

 

  • Excess mulch applied right against the trunk of trees in the landscape leads to constantly wet bark and conditions favorable for disease development which can potentially damage the tree.

 

  • When reapplying mulch over an existing layer of mulch, bring the total depth up to 2 to 2.5 inches.

 

  • Do not apply 2 inches of mulch with each application or soon a depth greater than 3 inches will accumulate. Some mulches break down at a much slower rate. Keep this in mind for future applications of mulch.

Pine Straw & Mulch Installation

Southeast Spreading is the professional choice for Mulch Installation & Pine straw Installation.  Our extensive experience and attention to detail, allow us to create amazing curb appeal, while taking the worry out of the installation process. 

From Condos to Golf Courses, Roadways to Subdivisions, let us customize the solution tailored to fit your needs.

"Plantation Golf & CC" - 08.22.11

  • Fast Installation Rate
  • Clean Finished Product
  • Polite, Uniformed Crews
  • Customized Service

Please contact us today for a free consultation, and find out why…

 

“Our Reputation is Spreading”