13 Best Alternatives to Use Instead of Mulch for Landscaping

Mulch is commonly used in landscaping to help retain moisture suppress weeds and improve the soil. However, traditional mulch like wood chips or bark nuggets may not be the best choice for every landscape. There are several excellent mulch alternatives to consider that can provide many of the same benefits without some of the drawbacks of traditional mulch.

Inorganic Mulch Alternatives

Inorganic mulches do not break down over time like organic mulches so they do not need frequent reapplication. They also do not attract termites or introduce weed seeds into the landscape. Popular inorganic mulch options include

Rocks and Stones

Using rocks, pebbles, gravel, or crushed stones as mulch provides texture and color to the landscape. Small stones may shift or sink into the soil over time and require occasional touch-ups. Larger stones or partial burying can help keep them in place. Stones do not improve soil nutrition but do allow water and air to penetrate to plant roots.

Rubber Mulch

Made from recycled tires, rubber mulch is heavy and won’t blow away. It does not break down over time. Rubber mulch helps conserve water in the landscape. It does not add nutrients back into the soil. Some types may leach chemicals into the soil.

Landscape Fabric

Landscape fabric or geotextile fabrics create a weed barrier but still allow water and air flow They are not very aesthetically pleasing and can prevent beneficial earthworms from entering the soil, Durability varies by brand

Organic Mulch Alternatives

Organic mulches add nutrients to the soil as they decompose but need reapplication every 1-2 years. Popular organic alternatives include:

Newspaper and Cardboard

Shredded newspaper or cardboard boxes make excellent mulch. Avoid glossy paper or cardboard treated with chemicals. Layer under other mulches to improve weed suppression and extend coverage area.

Hay and Straw

Inexpensive and readily available. Provide good weed control and moisture retention as they break down. Use a thick layer for best coverage. Avoid if pests like rabbits are a problem.

Compost

Nutrient-rich choice. Can be homemade or purchased. Has an earthy smell and appearance. Spread a thin layer near plants, leaving a margin to avoid disease spread.

Leaves

Rake up and shred fallen leaves to use as free mulch. Avoid diseased leaves. Use a mulching mower over leaves before collecting for best shredding.

Grass Clippings

Fresh clippings from untreated lawns make great mulch. Contains nitrogen to fertilize as it decomposes. Don’t use clippings from lawns treated with chemicals.

Pine Needles

Collected pine needles make attractive, natural-looking mulch. They have an acidic pH, so pair with acid-loving plants. Fresher needles are more acidic.

Cocoa Hulls

Made from the hulls of cocoa beans, these have an attractive color. Provides nutrients as it breaks down. Has a sweet chocolate smell but can attract dogs.

Coffee Grounds

Fresh coffee grounds make free, nutrient-rich mulch. Can be acidic. Avoid grounds treated with chemicals. Don’t apply too thickly or it may repel water.

Wood Chips

Often used for trails, wood chip mulch is long-lasting but needs reapplication every few years. Avoid letting it touch plant stems to prevent rot.

Shredded Bark

Commonly sold as mulch, shredded bark looks tidy and neat. It decomposes faster than wood chips. Reapply yearly. Can attract termites.

Pumice

Porous volcanic rock allows air and moisture penetration. Available in attractive red/brown colors. More expensive but very long-lasting.

Peanut Shells

Crushed peanut shells are attractive and weed-suppressing. Contain potassium and magnesium. Mix with nitrogen sources like grass clipping for balanced nutrition. Avoid whole shells.

Green Mulch

Low-growing ground cover plants like sedum, sweet alyssum, or Irish moss act as living mulch. Maintain regularly to keep tidy and prevent unwanted spread.

There are so many excellent mulch alternatives to choose from. Consider factors like appearance, cost, longevity, weed control, and nutritional benefits when selecting the right mulch substitute for your landscaping needs. Combining organic and inorganic mulches can give you the best of both worlds.