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If you like the look of mulch in your plant beds, be aware that it can attract a variety of pests, including termites. To avoid wood-to-foundation contact, leave a one-foot barrier around your house and fill it in with rocks or gravel, starting mulch past that barrier and working it outward into your plant beds. 

If you have a large area of brush and vegetation to clear, forestry mulching may be the best option. This method works well for relatively flat areas that don’t have many large rocks or mature trees to clear. Forestry mulching is a relatively quick process that improves soil health, reduces fire risk, and leaves behind usable mulch.

A good gravel driveway should be built in layers using different sizes of gravel. A solid base layer of larger crushed stone (around 1 to 6 inches in diameter) provides stability and helps with drainage. Some recommend a middle layer of medium-sized gravel (2 to 3 inches). For the top driving surface, smaller gravel is best. A common recommendation is to use gravel between 1/4 inch and 1 inch in diameter, as it compacts well to create an even surface that's easy to drive on. Avoid stones that are too large, flat, or round to ensure the best traction. Using different layers ensures the driveway is durable, drains properly, and doesn't shift over time.

Generally, it is not necessary to remove old mulch before applying a new layer. As organic mulch breaks down, it enriches the soil with nutrients. However, you should remove the old layer if it shows signs of fungus or disease, which can be common in moist areas, or if the total depth is already too thick. Avoid letting the total mulch depth exceed 3 inches, as this can harm plant roots. If you do remove old, disease-free mulch, it can be added to a compost pile.