Landscape Mulches: How quickly do they settle? FOR 69/FR052, 9/2006

Resumen

This study compares the settling rates of six landscape mulches in Florida: cypress, eucalyptus, melaleuca, pine-bark, pine-straw, and utility-prunings 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.