When it comes to landscaping, there are many different materials you can use to achieve the desired effect. A popular option is wood chips. They provide a natural look and feel, and they're also a great way to add some color and change up your yard. But when you use wood chips as mulch for landscaping, how long do they last? When will it be replaced? In this article, we will answer these questions and help you maintain your beautiful yard!The following content also has some reference value for raised garden beds.
On average, wood chips last two to three years before they need to be replaced. Thinner coverings may need to be replaced or refreshed twice a year. However, this depends on the type of wood used and environmental conditions.
For example, pine mulch usually breaks down faster than hardwood, and mulch in hot, dry climates breaks down faster than mulch in cool, humid climates. So how often should you replace mulch and chips?
How often should wood chips be replaced?
Generally, larger chips need to be replaced every few years, although garden beds with finer organic mulch need to be replaced twice a year. Keep in mind, however, that this is only a guideline - you may need to change them more or less depending on your specific situation.
Over time, wood chips will begin to break down and no longer provide the benefit of your garden bed. Here are some signs that it's time to replace the sawdust:
The fries are getting thinner
If you can see some areas where the soil is starting to expose, it could be a sign that the chip is breaking down and no longer providing adequate coverage.
There are more weeds in the garden beds than usual
If weeds appear in the area you covered with sawdust, it is a sign that the sawdust is no longer thick enough to prevent them from growing.
Your old mulch has discolored or deteriorated
As the mulch decomposes, discoloration may be a sign of deterioration. While that's not necessarily a bad thing, it does mean they no longer offer the same benefits as when they were new. Discolored mulch may simply be the result of sun exposure, not necessarily spoilage. You also have to remember that natural mulch will age differently than dyed mulch. (Although I really like using red and black mulch on my flower beds!)
Your watering schedule needs to change
If you find that your plants need more water than they used to, it may be a sign that wood chips are no longer doing their job of retaining water.
You had heavy rain
Wood chips can help prevent soil erosion, but if they are already breaking down and thinning, rain will wash them away and do more harm than good.
If you're not sure it's time to restock mulch with sawdust, a quick check can't hurt. Just remove a few handfuls of mulch and look at the chips underneath. If they get thin, bad, or overgrown with weeds, it's time to replace them!
How do I replace wood chips
If you decide to replace wood chips, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Try to use the same type of mulch or chips
This will help maintain the natural look and feel of your yard. Dyed mulch will look better if you can match it with the same mulch color (even if your old chips are faded) so that it looks as natural as possible.
Don't overdo it
Adding too much mulch can actually do more harm than good, so make sure to only add the right amount to achieve proper coverage. Too much mulch can cause moisture problems and insufficient air circulation, which can lead to plant rot. Fresh wood chips spread evenly on the ground will produce the best results as the mulch breaks down.
Refill and water well
This will help the chip settle in and get off to a good start. The first soak will result in more soggy mulch, but you want to keep all the chips in place around the plant in order to keep them healthy for the long term.
Ask for help
If you have a lot of garden beds to cover, it may help to get help from friends or family. Replacing all the mulch yourself can be a daunting task!
Pull weeds beforehand
The job will be much easier if you address the weed problem before adding new mulch. If you use organic methods to remove weeds, adding fresh mulch after you're done will also help keep the soil healthy and keep weeds from growing.
Use the best quality mulch you can afford
Not all mulch is created equal! When looking for a quality mulch, you want to find one that is weed-free, in a nice color, and from a reputable seller. Cheaper suppliers may mix chips with other materials. Locally produced wood chips may be more suitable for garden beds in your area.
How can I make the chips last longer?
Wood chips are often used as mulch because it requires minimal maintenance after the initial installation date, but mulch maintenance is still a thing! There are a few things you can do to maintain your garden bed before completely replacing mulch:
Replace pine chips or bark mulch with hardwood chips
Pine pieces break down faster than hardwood pieces, so they may not last as long. In general, bark mulch also breaks down faster than wood chips.
Spread them out evenly
If you have a lot of garden beds to cover, it may help to get help from friends or family. An even distribution will ensure that the chips last as long as possible.
Water them occasionally
If you use organic methods to remove weeds, adding fresh mulch after you're done will also help keep the soil healthy and keep weeds from growing. Regular watering can also help your sawdust mulch last longer.
Add one layer of organic matter each year
Adding an inch of compost or other organic matter to your garden bed each year will help keep the soil healthy and promote the growth of beneficial microbes. This will also help delay the need for a complete mulch replacement.
Rotate your mulch bed
If you have the space, turning a mulch bed can help extend the life of wood chips. This will help keep the soil healthy and even promote decomposition.
Is sawdust a low maintenance mulch product?
Wood chips are a popular mulch product for commercial and residential gardens. They are relatively cheap, easy to find, and have many benefits for plants. However, wood chips are not necessarily low maintenance. They need to be replenished regularly, as they will eventually break down and become part of the soil. Also, they can be difficult to remove if they are no longer needed. Still, wood chips can be an effective mulch product if used properly. When choosing wood chips, look for those that have not been contaminated with chemicals or diseases. Also, be sure to lay them out in a thick layer (at least 2-3 inches) to ensure maximum gain. With a little care, wood chips can provide a low-maintenance mulch solution for your garden.
Final thought
All in all, wood chips are a great way to add nutrients to your soil and keep out weeds, but they do need some regular maintenance. Be sure to choose high quality chips, water them occasionally, and add organic matter to the soil every year to ensure they will last as long as possible. If you have enough space, turn your mulch beds to extend their life further. Happy gardening!
