Can You Mix Rubber Mulch With Wood Mulch? (The Pros & Cons)

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Mulching your garden can have many benefits, whether it’s rubber mulch or wood mulch. Yet, can you mix rubber mulch with wood mulch?

Mainly, you can mix rubber mulch with wood mulch. In fact, doing that can help extend the mulching longevity and enhance its properties.

In this article, you’ll learn more about using both types of mulch in your garden, how to do it, and what their benefits are. So, keep scrolling.

Can You Mix Rubber Mulch With Wood Mulch?

Yes, you can do that. However, there are specific considerations to understand before you proceed with it.

Although mixing rubber mulch with wood mulch has many advantages, knowing the possible drawbacks is also essential.

Advantages of Mixing Rubber With Wood Mulch

Mixing rubber and wood mulch can have several benefits for your plants’ well-being as well as your garden’s aesthetics.

Here are a few of them:

1 – Moisture Retention

Both rubber and wood mulch offer essential benefits when it comes to moisture retention.

Thanks to its non-porous nature, rubber mulch acts as an effective barrier against water loss. This rescues the need for frequent watering.

On the other hand, the organic nature of wood mulch helps improve soil structure and its water-holding capacity.

That said, combining both types of mulch provides a dual moisture retention system, offering you the best of both worlds.

2 – Weed Suppression

Rubber mulch acts as an excellent weed suppression because of its dense composition. It forms a thick barrier that inhibits weed growth by blocking sunlight.

Such type of mulching results in reducing the need for frequent weeding and maintenance.

Conversely, wood mulch decomposes over time, releasing compounds that inhibit weed growth. Additionally, like rubber mulch, wood mulch forms a barrier that hinders weed emergence.

That’s why combining both mulches is an effective strategy for weed suppression.

3 – Durability and Longevity

Rubber and wood mulch each offer distinctive advantages when it comes to durability and longevity.

For example, rubber mulch doesn’t break down or decompose like organic mulches. It can withstand the weathering effects, retaining its shape and color for several years.

While wood mulch isn’t as long-lasting as rubber, it still offers a degree of durability. Plus, it decomposes gradually, providing the soil with enriching organic matter.

Having said that, the combination of both mulches creates a balanced blend. This results in extended durability and less maintenance frequency.

4 – Texture and aesthetics

Rubber mulch can offer a consistent appearance, adding a modern look to your landscaping. Coming in various color options, it allows for customized designs.

Contrarily, wood mulch provides a rustic feel to your garden with its organic texture and earthy tones.

When combined, both mulches create an aesthetically pleasing contrast, resulting in a visually appealing garden bed.

Considerations Before Mixing Rubber Mulch With Wood Mulch

Despite the advantages, you should keep the following tips in mind when mixing mulches.

• Ensure the rubber mulch you use is safe and free from harmful chemicals.
• Follow safety guidelines when working with rubber mulch.
• Consider your budget before mixing mulches, as rubber mulch can be quite expensive.
• Keep in mind that mixing mulches requires more careful maintenance to ensure even distribution and a tidy appearance.
• Consider the long-term sustainability of your mulching choice, as rubber mulch isn’t biodegradable.

How To Mix Rubber Mulch With Wood Mulch

Mixing rubber mulch with wood mulch is no rocket science. You can easily and effectively do it by following these steps:

1. Prepare the area by clearing it from twigs, debris, weeds, or previously laid mulch.
2. Select high-quality types of mulch (both wood and rubber), and ensure the rubber kind is free from contaminants.
3. Start by laying down a base layer of wood mulch as a foundation for the mix.
4. Spread the rubber mulch over the wood mulch layer evenly.
5. Use a rake to blend the two mulches for consistent coverage.
6. Avoid exceeding the recommended mulch thickness, which is two to four inches.
7. Inspect the mulch layer from afar and make any necessary adjustments.
8. Water the mulch lightly to help it settle in place.

Final Thoughts

Mixing rubber mulch with wood mulch can be a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution. It offers many benefits, from moisture retention and weed suppression to higher durability.

By following the recommended steps and keeping the previously mentioned considerations in mind, you can create a well-balanced mulch bed for your precious garden.

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