Mulch contributes to the beauty of the landscape. The contrasting color of the mulch compared to the plants contributes to a natural yet neat appearance. The vivid color of the mulch will hold fast throughout the year enduring seasonal changes and the weather.

Erosion control is an important function of mulch, thereby providing more longevity over pine straw. Erosion can be a concern especially in sloping or bare areas that are exposed to heavy rains. Pine straw breaks downs, allowing bare spots, especially on hills and around tree rings. Mulch withstands weather conditions to stay where installed, therefore allowing more time between the need for additional mulch installation.

Mulch suppresses weeds. A layer of mulch prevents sunlight from reaching the soil, thereby reducing the incidence of weeds. Mulch will not prevent all weed seeds from sprouting, but does deter most annual weed seedlings from coming through.

Mulch prevents soil and possible fungi from splashing onto foliage, thus reducing the likelihood of soil-borne diseases.

Mulch helps to keep moisture in the soil. Mulch acts as a barrier which slows the water down before it hits the soil. This way the water has a chance to soak into the soil gradually.

The insulating value of mulches helps keep the soil cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Better growth of your plants throughout the growing season will occur if excessive fluctuations in soil temperature can be reduced.

Mulch enriches the soil as it decays, forming a rich, and dark, organic material called humus. Humus provides nutrients to the soil thereby enhancing soil fertility. It also improves the soil structure of our clay soils (i.e., it loosens up tight clay particles).

Mulch provides significant benefits to landscape plants by providing a physical barrier around tree trunks and shrubs, which eliminates the possible damage from lawn mowers and weed trimmers.

Mulch is a natural insect repellent, reducing the infestation of fleas, ticks, and other insects.