Bark Mulch, Loam & Compost

Mulch is one of the most effective and visually impactful ways to enhance your garden beds while improving soil health. With several types available—such as red cedar, hemlock, pine, and black mulch—choosing the right one can make a noticeable difference in both appearance and performance. Each variety offers unique color tones and benefits, allowing you to match your landscape style while supporting plant growth. Beyond aesthetics, mulch plays a critical role in retaining moisture, regulating soil temperature, and suppressing weeds.

Red cedar mulch is known for its rich reddish hue and pleasant aroma, making it a popular choice for decorative beds and around entryways. It also naturally resists insects and decay, giving it a longer lifespan than some other mulches.

Hemlock mulch offers a deep, reddish-brown color that tends to hold its tone well over time, creating a more natural woodland look.

Pine mulch, often lighter in color with brown shades, blends beautifully into informal or rustic landscapes and breaks down more quickly, enriching the soil as it decomposes.

Black mulch, typically dyed, provides a bold, modern contrast that makes green plants and colorful flowers stand out dramatically, though it may fade over time with sun exposure.

Natural bark mulch—whether cedar, hemlock, or pine—has the added advantage of improving soil structure as it decomposes. It introduces organic matter, encourages beneficial microbial activity, and enhances drainage in heavier soils. These mulches are ideal for garden beds, around trees and shrubs, and in areas where long-term soil health is a priority. Apply mulch in a 2–3 inch layer, being careful not to pile it directly against plant stems or tree trunks. Spring and early summer are the best times to refresh mulch, helping to lock in moisture before the heat of the season while giving your landscape a clean, finished look.

When it comes to improving your soil beneath the mulch, understanding the difference between loam and compost is key. Loam is a balanced soil blend of sand, silt, and clay, making it ideal for leveling areas, filling low spots, or creating a strong base for new lawns and planting beds. Compost, on the other hand, is rich in organic matter and nutrients, making it perfect for enriching existing soil and boosting plant health. Use compost when planting flowers, vegetables, or shrubs by mixing it into the top few inches of soil. Loam is best used for structural improvements, while compost is your go-to for feeding and revitalizing your garden—together, they create the foundation for a thriving, healthy landscape. We also carry a specialty pre-mix of Loam and Compost available.

Mulch, Loam and Compost are available in bulk by the yard. Deliveries are available Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays for the 2026 Season.

Click here for more information on our mulch types and pricing.