Xeriscape Series Part Five...

Mulch is Important to Arizona Plants

Mulch does a lot more for plants than you might think. Using the proper mulch for the proper plants is really important.

In Arizona, we see the use of inorganic mulches such as rock or gravel quite often. While surrounding plants with these materials looks very natural with our Arizona desert landscaping themes, this practice should be limited. Surrounding plants with rocky material tends to retain heat and only very heat resistant plants should be considered.

On the other hand, organic mulches such as wood chips, tree bark, or sawdust actually help cool plants. These organic products should be applied 3-4 inches deep (not just visually covering the ground). This practice will keep the soil from crusting or compacting and will help prevent weed growth while minimizing evaporation.

There is a misconception that Xeriscaping eliminates the need for heavy mulch... this is not the case. The proper use of much will help soil beds retain moisture and plants thrive!