Rubber mulch is recycled landscaping material. If you plan to install rubber mulch, it is somewhat controversial since it may increase the heat in some plant, and it can be more costly than other mulch types.
However, rubber mulch has many advantages that make the cost worthwhile. Rubber mulch doesn't have to be constantly replaced like organic mulch, and it provides a cushion for falls in play areas. Install rubber mulch by following these tips.
Prepare to Install Rubber Mulch
To install rubber mulch, gather:
- work gloves
- tape measure
- scissors or sharp knife
- rake
- shovel
- landscape fabric
- landscape staples, tape, or liquid nails
- organic weed killer (optional)
When you are choosing a site for rubber mulch, don't place it near areas where fires may be present or on concrete or paved areas. Also, avoid installing near edibles, because rubber mulch may have zinc and other chemicals that leak into the soil.
Pair rubber mulch with plants that can tolerate increased heat like the Century plant or Blue-mist shrub. The Century plant has a hardiness zone of nine to eleven, and the Blue-mist ha a hardiness zone of six to nine. A hardiness zone measures how well the plant can thrive in certain locations.
Measure the area you plan to install mulch, and buy enough mulch to cover a one-inch thick layer. Use the rake and shovel to remove leaves sticks, and old mulch.
Dig a Trench
Before you dig, get a map of pipes in your yard from your utility company. If weeds are present, spray an organic weed killer.
Dig a hole to a depth of two inches to flatten the area; allowing a one-inch slope per ten feet. For play areas, you may want to dig to six inches. Flower beds and walkways will not need to be too deep.
Lay the Landscape Fabric and Mulch
Spread the landscape fabric over the entire mulch area. Cut the space out of the fabric to fit existing trees or shrubs or space for new plantings, and secure the fabric edges with liquid nails, staples, or tape.
If you use staples or nails, insert them every five feet. The fabric can also be held in place with pavers.
Landscape fabric is optional, but it serves as a weed barrier. Cloth fabrics are more efficient at preventing flooding than plastic coverings. Plastic landscape fabric under mulch tends to trap moisture, which increases the chance of fungus.
Add the mulch to the trench with the shovel. Tamp the mulch to make it even. Visit a site like http://www.allamericanlandscapedesign.com for more help.
