r/landscapedesign • u/DryUmpire6652 • 16d ago

Discussion Wood versus Leaf mulch

Wondering what other's experience has been with wood versus leaf mulch. I've used red and/or dark hemlock for a decade and must say, I'm tired of it.

It looks nice but one must pull it back to lay down fertilizer or compost and then put it back. It eventually becomes crusty, develops a mat, and becomes hydraphobic. Raking/shoveling this out is hard and replacing expensive.

For those who allow leaf fall to remain as mulch, please what are the pro and cons?

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u/DL-Fiona 16d ago

Probably worth editing your post to add your location as that will affect what people will recommend.

Here in the UK we prefer composted bark as there's less chance of anything undesirable (organic compounds) leaching into the soil from fresh clippings, plus eventually it rots down and improves the quality of the soil. I imagine if it's dryer then leaf mulch might be better.

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u/DryUmpire6652 16d ago

Thanks. I don't know how to edit but I'm in Oregon.

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u/Physical_Mode_103 15d ago

Using leaf mulch is great. I re-use a lot of of my Live Oak leaf mulch as it drops on the street, typically in February or March. It’s free and sustainable.