What kind of Garden Mulch is Best for Your Garden?

[Sherrygorden]

I am trying to suppress weeds and retain moisture during the summer heat, but I’m paralyzed by the choices between wood chips, straw, pine needles, and shredded bark. In your experience, what kind of garden mulch is best for your garden if you are growing a mix of perennials and annual vegetables? I’m looking for something that enriches the soil as it decomposes but doesn't radically shift the nitrogen levels or attract termites to the perimeter of my home.

 

[Lloyd_Christmas]

The best garden mulch depends on what you’re growing, but organic mulches like wood chips, bark, straw, or compost are great for most gardens because they retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil over time; wood chips work well for trees and shrubs, while straw or compost is better for vegetable beds.