Get matched with top mulch and topsoil pros in Mitchell, SD

Wood from black walnut, magnolia, eucalyptus, red maple, and invasive species like tree of heaven are not recommended for mulching. These trees release allelochemicals that can suppress plant growth. Some homeowners, however, use wood from these trees for mulching if it is less potent due to age or concentration, or if the plants are not as sensitive to them.

Organic mulch typically lasts between 4 to 6 years. However, factors like the type of organic mulch you choose, mulch size, and weather conditions can all play a role in its longevity. In some cases, you’ll need to replace organic mulch every few years.

Some drawbacks of forestry mulching include leaving behind a thick mulch layer, not being suitable for extremely rocky areas, creating conditions that attract pests, and not being able to fully remove large trees and stumps. You may need to pay extra to have larger trees felled and stumps ground in order to fully clear your land.

The best soil to put around a house foundation is fill dirt, which is soil that’s specifically designed for covering large areas and filling in holes. Don’t waste money regrading around your foundation with expensive topsoil. Use topsoil only for the last layer of soil, about 5 to 10 inches, so that when you do your foundation planting, your grass and plants will have the nutrients they need to grow.