As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.

Mulch can be almost any loose aggregate material that will stay put and not significantly reduce air exchange out of the soil. But what kind is best?

As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.

As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.

As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.

As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.

As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.

Other budget-friendly mulch options include some types of bark or shredded hardwood. Depending on the type selected, these varieties can insulate, retain moisture and last longer than straw.

As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.

As with hardwood bark mulch, it’s best to find a source that is composted — and if formal composting isn’t an option, an old pile that’s been sitting around a while is still better than fresh.