Lawn and Garden: Mulches

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English

Publications

Landscape Mulches: How quickly do they settle?

Mary L. Duryea and Patrick J. Minogue

This study compares the settling rates of six landscape mulches in Florida: cypress, eucalyptus, melaleuca, pine-bark, pine-straw, and utility-pruning mulch. Over two years, pine-straw settled the most, reducing to nearly nothing, while melaleuca settled the least, maintaining most of its original depth. The study highlights the importance of mulch replenishment to maintain benefits like weed control and soil moisture retention. The findings suggest melaleuca, pine-bark, and cypress as superior choices for long-term mulch effectiveness. First published October 1999.

Florida-Friendly Mulches and Their Uses

Don Rainey, Esen Momol, Jennifer Marvin, Tom Wichman, Chris Marble, Lynn Barber, and Susan Haddock

This new 6-page publication of the UF/IFAS Environmental Horticulture Department is intended for those persons seeking information on how to properly select and use mulch as one component of a Florida-friendly landscape design. Written by Don Rainey, Esen Momol, Jennifer Marvin, Tom Wichman, Chris Marble, Lynn Barber, and Susan Haddock.

The Facts About Termites and Mulch

Faith M. Oi and Marsha Wheeler

A UF/IFAS numbered publication.

Mulching Herbs, Vegetables and Fruit Trees in the Florida-Friendly Edible Landscape

Tina McIntyre, Rachel Gutner, Tiare Silvasy, Jacqlyn Rivas, and Esen Momol

Mulching is the practice of spreading material around the base of a plant to protect the plant, conserving moisture or suppressing weeds. This new 7-page publication of the UF/IFAS Environmental Horticulture Department serves as a guide for homeowners and professionals to reference best practices on mulching and discusses mulch sources, application techniques, and management practices. It will clarify the mulch needs of fruit trees, shrubs, herbs, and vegetables to promote plant health. Written by Tina McIntyre, Rachel Gutner, Tiare Silvasy, Jacqlyn Rivas, and Esen Momol.