Why Cypress Mulch?
CYPRESS MULCH
Cypress mulch is an organic material made from Bald Cypress trees and is frequently used in landscaping and gardening applications. All organic mulches help soil retain moisture, keep the soil cool, and insulate plant roots during freezing temperatures.
Most mulch products also prevent the growth of weeds and provide a nice, finished look to a yard or garden. In addition to these properties, Cypress mulch offers a number of benefits that other mulches do not.
CHIPS OR SHREDDED?
In order to make Cypress mulch, both the bark and small amount of the wood of the Bald Cypress tree (Taxodium distichum) are ground to the desired texture. Shredded mulch is generally a better choice than the chips, as it stays in place longer and composts faster. One of the benefits of Cypress mulch is that it is less expensive than many other organic mulch products such as Cedar.
NUTRIENTS
As Cypress mulch decomposes, it adds nutrients to the soil. Some mulch – shredded pallets, yard grindings, and newspaper – do not add such nutrients. Additionally, some organic mulches such as Pine needles and bark alter the pH of the soil as they decompose. These acidic mulch options lower the soil’s pH which can cause harm to surrounding plants. Cypress mulch is neutral and causes no change to soil’s pH levels as it decomposes. In fact, a majority of plant life benefits from the nutrients that Cypress mulch releases during its decomposition.
WEED DETERRENT
Hardwood grindings and compost are also organic mulches, but neither is as effective as Cypress mulch when it comes to weed prevention. Organic compost is a great way to add nutrients to soil, but its rich composition also makes a perfect site for weed growth. Hardwood grindings often contain tree or weed seeds that eventually sprout in the mulched area. Cypress mulch; however, blocks weed growth and prevents any airborne seeds from reaching the soil to germinate. Cypress mulch also contains cypressene which is a natural oil that resists rot, deters weeds, and also acts as an insect repellant.
APPEARANCE
Cypress mulch is an attractive soil cover that looks much nicer than mixed hardwood species, pallet and yard grindings. It also has a unique, pleasant smell when it is fresh. ColorBiotics® dye is environmentally safe and known for its lasting vibrancy. Mulch from pure Cypress bark/wood will create a consistent grind and color from one load to the next. Due to its resistant qualities, Cypress mulch does not need to be replaced as frequently as other mulches.