Mulch is a highly effective gardening tool that not only adds to the appeal of your lawn, but also to the health and wellness of your plants. Depending on your environment, though, some types of mulch are better than others.

Shredded Bark
If you’re looking for a traditional look, shredded bark is the way to go. Typically made from cedar wood, the bark is broken into pieces and dyed to a desired shade.

Best for: Midwest, Northeast, Southwest

Cocoa Shells
Coming from the woody shell of a cocoa bean, this rich chocolate brown mulch not only smells great, but also is a wonderful alternative to wood chips, which break down more quickly.

Best for: Any climate

Newspaper/Cardboard
If you are looking to block out soil and moisture from your bottom layers of soil, as well as prevent weed growth, shredded paper and cardboard does a wonderful job.

Best for: Northeast

Hay/Pine Needle/Grass Clippings
Natural clippings of hay, pine needles, or grass all serve a similar purpose—to cover your garden naturally—and will add nutrients to the soil over time.

Best for: Any climate

Gravel/Smooth Stones
Rocks are the perfect option for areas that receive a lot of rain, as they won’t wash away easily with flowing water, and can help prevent rainfall from damaging plants.

Best for: Northwest, Southeast

Rubber
This lower-cost option is great for those looking for long-lasting mulch. Rubber won’t break down over time like other options, and comes in a wide variety of colors.

Best for: Northeast, Midwest

Composting Soil
The nutrients in compost make it the best option for keeping your plants healthy and thriving. The dark color also looks lovely against light and vibrant-colored flowers.

Best for: Any climate