Mulch, gravel, soil and sand may seem to be related but actually they all perform a different function.  Lets look at each individually and learn about when and where to use each for best results.

Mulch is best used for decorative purposes.  It also suppresses weed growth, seed germination, provides nutrients and to help conserve soil moisture.  Mulch comes in different colors and from different sources.  Because of where in the gardening zone you are located you may want to visit your local home improvement store and speak with an associate there for what is best for your particular zone.  There are organic mulches, cedar, rubber, pine, red, black .. the list goes on.  Use the same mulch all over the yard to keep your yard looking uniform.  If you live in a rainy area try to avoid Eucalyptus mulch.  It is very light and will float away during a heavy rain.

Gravel comes in different sized and colors but it is mostly used for drive ways, walk ways and also for moisture and weed control around trees and shrubs.  Unlike mulch it will not add any nutrients to the soil.

Soil also comes with different components.  Moisture control, organic, potting soil, peat moss, orchid moss, cedar composting, manure, nursery mix and on and on.  Again due to the variance of the garden zones you may want to speak with a local grower for whats best for your project.  Things to keep in mind are that moisture control is for dry zones where water is not readily available or for gardeners who don’t want to water the garden often.  Potting soil is a general and all purpose soil for potted plants.  If you mix it in with the soil in your garden it will enhance growth in your garden beds.  Manure is used primarily for growing fruits and vegetables.  You do not want to use chemicals in the soil around food producing plants and trees because you will also be consuming those chemicals when you eat items from your garden.  Nursery mix is best for mixing with your current soil and for flowering plants.  If you would like nursery mix I recommend going to your local nursery and purchasing their mix, which is specially mixed for your region, and is probably cheaper than at your local home improvement store.

Sand is used to even out lawns and for better drainage of water in garden beds.  If you are planning a garden you may want to consider putting down sand first and then your prepared soil on top.  This allows the plant to absorb the nutrients and water in the soil but lets the excess water to drain away from the roots of your plants to prevent root rot.  Too little water is a problem but too much water can be a problem too.  When working with your lawn you may want to fill in holes and / or depressions.  This makes the yard look smooth and even all the way around.  Once you have filled your problem spots you will then want to add soil on top to encourage your grass to grow over these areas.  If you are able to purchase sod (grass rolls or squares) you could also cut small pieces to place in bare areas to cover the bald spots.  The grass will not just hide the bare spot but will take root and complete your lawns perfect look faster.

I hope you found this information helpful.  Remember you have unlimited resources available on the internet, at the library garden section and at your local nursery.

Watch for my next update..till then Enjoy your home, enjoy your garden..Love your life!!

Visit my webpage and send in your questions and comments.  I would love to hear from you!

http://lizbeltranhomeandgardendesigns.yolasite.com

Liz Beltran Home and Garden Designs