Rubber and wood mulch are multi-tasking heroes that work wonders for your garden. Both are effective weed barriers, water-savers, and protective coverings against extreme weather.
Here’s the thing: Organic mulch breaks down and gradually nourishes your soil; synthetic material doesn’t and, therefore, lasts longer.
Now, the big question is: Can you mix rubber mulch with wood mulch?
Keep reading to determine if this pairing is a mulch made in heaven!
Can You Mix Rubber and Wood Mulch?
If you’re willing to spend extra cash and take on additional work, you can definitely mix rubber and wood mulch.
Do I recommend it? Not really, and I’ve got a few good reasons.
But first, let’s differentiate the two materials.
Wood mulch comes from all sorts of wood: bark, chips, shredded tree branches, and recycled wood products. It improves soil structure and fertility as it slowly decomposes over the years.
Meanwhile, rubber mulch is typically made from recycled rubber or old tires. Processed into nugget-sized pieces, it comes in various colors and boasts a more uniform look than wood mulch.
Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which Is Better?
Wood mulch scores major points for being safe, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable.
While it’s true that rubber mulch is long-lasting, it’s anything but permanent.
Sure, rubber mulch degrades much more slowly than wood mulch. However, it contains heavy metals and toxic chemicals that can seep into the soil and damage plants.
In fact, one study discovered that rubber mulch can leach excess zinc under high temperatures. But that’s not all.
Rubber mulch can taint the air we breathe with harmful gases. You can even smell that unmistakable burnt rubber stench on hot days.
Also, rubber mulch heats up quickly, making it less than ideal for your cool-weather crops and perennials. It looks pretty, but it’s a fire hazard.
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, the flames from burning rubber mulch can reach over three feet.
And because of the specialized processing in its manufacture, it’s more expensive than wood mulch.
Why You Shouldn’t Mix Rubber Mulch With Wood Mulch
Rubber mulch looks quite similar to dyed hardwood. In terms of aesthetics, it doesn’t make sense to have two different mulches for the same look.
Initially, freshly applied rubber mulch gives your garden a lively palette. Yet, give it a few years, and the color tends to dull and fade, especially when constantly exposed to the elements.
When you mix the two, you’re introducing different materials that age or wear at various rates. That said, your mulch mixture can settle unevenly over time, leaving you with a patchy garden.
Now, imagine the hassle of getting rid of all that old rubber mulch when you decide it’s time for a switch.
Can You Apply Rubber and Wood Mulch in Layers?
You might wonder: What about layering one over the other so you can enjoy the benefits of both mulches?
Of course, the logical thing to do is to spread a layer of wood mulch on the soil before topping off with the decorative rubber chunks. This way, the nutrients dissolve into the soil as the organic matter rots.
However, if you need a fresh dressing of wood chips, you’ll have to clear out all the existing rubber pieces first.
Now, let’s flip the scenario: Wood mulch over rubber mulch.
Because the wood mulch is farther from the soil, it’ll break down more slowly. Plus, you’re essentially concealing all those decorative rubber bits underneath.
How to Use Rubber Mulch and Wood Mulch in Your Garden
If you’re keen on using both organic and synthetic mulches, use them in different areas rather than blending them together.
It should keep things interesting without the challenge of managing two different mulch types in the same space.
For zones where you want a tough, no-fuss solution that lasts a long time, go for rubber mulch. Meanwhile, organic material like wood mulch is a slow-release treat and should be near your plants.
For example, you can use rubber mulch for pathways and wood mulch for flower beds. This way, you get the best of both worlds without making your gardening job too complicated.
Final Thoughts
So, can you mix rubber mulch with wood mulch?
Mixing rubber mulch with wood mulch isn’t the best idea mainly because of how hard it is to maintain. But here’s a simpler take:
Use rubber mulch in areas where durability matters, like walkways or areas with lots of foot traffic. Meanwhile, choose wood mulch for garden beds or vegetable patches.
Splitting the job this way keeps your yard in top shape without extra headaches.
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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