Why is Rubber Mulch Gaining Popularity These Days?

Mulch has been used for many decades in gardens and flower beds. Usually manufactured from organic material such as bark and wood, mulch helps to hold in soil moisture, protect plants from extremes in temperature, and prevent weeds from germinating in the soil.

Unfortunately, traditional wood mulch breaks down over time and needs to be topped off every year or two. If you have ever helped add mulch to planter beds, you know that this regular maintenance can be quite a chore, and it always requires more mulch than you think it will. While wood mulch is relatively inexpensive and readily available, it doesn’t last long. But, the rubber mulch is more effective.

Few Optimal Points of Rubber Mulch

Rubber mulch looks similar to wood mulch in its texture. However, it’s also available in a variety of colors for those who want a different look for their landscaping. Along with its unique aesthetic, its longevity, bug resistance, and safety for play areas are some of the main benefits of rubber mulch.

Here are some Pros of rubber mulch:

Longer Life Span

Rubber mulch isn’t organic, so it lasts much longer than wood, straw, and leaf alternatives. Some manufacturers claim their rubber mulches can last up to 10 years before you need to replace them. Wood mulch, on the other hand, breaks down completely in four to seven years.

Water Resistant

Organic mulches absorb a lot of water, resulting in a hub of fungi, mold, and pathogens. Rubber mulch, on the other hand, isn’t absorbent at all. Water simply passes around the mulch and straight into the soil, keeping plants thoroughly hydrated.

Keeps Bugs Away

One big advantage of rubber mulch is that it doesn’t attract many bugs. But, in general, if you have serious pest problems and you’re trying to avoid ant or termite infestations, rubber mulch can help by not providing them a suitable home.

Doesn’t Blow/Wash Away

Rubber mulch is made from ground-up tires and tends to be heavier than its organic counterparts. Therefore, it’s not easily blown away by strong winds or swept out of your garden bed in heavy rain. With wood and straw mulches, you can accidentally blow them all over the place just by being a little too enthusiastic with your leaf blower. You won’t have this trouble with rubber mulch.

Weeds Prevention

Mulch is primarily used to inhibit weed growth; in this regard, rubber is the all-star. The heavy and dense material blocks light and compresses the soil surface, discouraging weeds from germinating or pushing up new growth. Additionally, it does not hold water, making it unlikely for weed seeds to germinate and take root in your soil.

Good For Cushioning

Unlike wood mulch, rubber mulch provides a cushioned surface with shock-absorbing properties. It can reduce the risk of injury from falling on it. Also, it’s free from splinters. That makes rubber mulch a potential option for areas where children are active, like backyard playgrounds, to prevent bruises.

Perfect Insulator

Well-known for its insulating properties, rubber can keep your soil warmer for longer. This can extend plant growth and warm the earth earlier for a significantly increased growing season. Plus, you’ll get flowers that will keep flowering later into the fall as the soil retains its heat.

Rubber mulch comes in a variety of colors, allowing for a unique aesthetic for landscaping. Use the mulch created from recycled tires and make our environment safe and sustainable.