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Colored mulch can be bad for plants in that it robs them of nitrogen as it depletes the soil to break itself down. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to test your soil to check the nitrogen levels. If the nitrogen levels are low, use fertilizer with extra nitrogen or switch to regular mulch.

Another downside of colored mulch is if it’s heavily contaminated, it can contaminate the soil and damage your plants. To avoid this, look for the MSC certification logo on the mulch bag before purchasing.

Seal bags firmly for materials like soil or mulch, store unused parts in dry and cool spaces to prevent decay and use material visually formed covers for extended periods.

How tall your mulch should be around your tree depends on the type of mulch you use, but aim for 3 to 4 inches as a rule of thumb. You’ll want to avoid simply piling it up in hopes of offering additional benefits to your tree. Volcano mulching is the infamous term for piling way too much mulch against the stem of your tree. This could actually kill your tree or severely harm it, as your tree trunk needs space to breathe without too much moisture.

Using sand under stepping stones can be beneficial in certain situations. Sand can help level the ground and provide stability for the stepping stones, especially if the ground is uneven. It also allows for minor adjustments during the installation process. However, sand may not be the best choice for all environments. In areas with high foot traffic or heavy rain, sand may wash away or become displaced, leading to an uneven surface. In such cases, a more stable base material like gravel or crushed stone is preferable. Consider your specific landscape conditions before deciding whether to use sand under stepping stones.