Benefits Of Mulch
Urban Life
Urban Life

Think about our urban and suburban lives. Poor soil; unnatural fluctuations in heat and moisture; we rake up our leaves and cover the soil with concrete.

Happy Roots
Happy Roots

Think about trees in their natural forest environment. The soil has a blanket of leaves and other organic stuff, which is decomposing, providing the soil with a constant source of nutrients.

Improve Your Soil
Improve Your Soil

Mulch actually improves the soil! As mulch decomposes it adds humus and micro-nutrients to the soil. Additionally, studies have shown that the tree roots below mulch tend to have very high mycorrhiza colonies.

Healthy Landscape
Healthy Landscape

Mulch encourages the presence of earthworms which improve soil structure and add nutrients. But possibly the best reason for mulching your landscape beds is it looks terrific!

What is This Growing on My Mulch?

What is This Growing on My Mulch?

Wood mulch is one of the most effective gardening and lawn care materials. It is affordable, all-natural and nutritious for plants. While most property owners are aware of the incredible benefits that wood mulch offers, they become surprised when they find an unexpected patch of mushrooms or strange mold growing on their wood chips. At Wholesale Wood Products, we provide premium bulk wood mulch for home and business owners in Atlanta, Georgia and nearby metro area communities. We enjoy helping our local clients find ways to improve their outdoor spaces with quality mulch, and we want to do the same for you. If you have been experiencing issues with strange things growing in your wood mulch, then read below for some information that can help you properly maintain a healthy, beautiful lawn and garden space.

Why Would Mold or Fungus Grow in Mulch?

Wood mulch is a preferred landscaping material precisely because it is natural and free of toxins and chemicals. However, in a human-free ecosystem, mold and fungus are welcome guests rather than unsightly nuisances. These fast-growing eukaryotes work hard to break down solid materials, so the vitamins and minerals can be reused to feed new plant growth. While this is an essential process in the natural world, many property owners have a strong aversion to the presence of mold or fungus growing in their own well-manicured landscape.

Common Varieties of Fungus

The first step in reducing mold or fungus growth in your yard is to identify the species. With more than five million fungal species in the world, this can sometimes feel like a challenge. Thankfully, wood mulch often attracts a smaller number of fungal varieties. Here are some of the most common:

  • Birds Nest Fungus It looks like birds nests filled with small eggs. While they are not harmful, they can quickly overtake a garden space.
  • Mushrooms Most homeowners can quickly identify a mushroom when they see it. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. It is important to remember that many species of mushrooms can be poisonous and should be removed to avoid danger to small children or pets.
  • Artillery Fungus This species resembles a cup holding a single black egg. It is given the militaristic name because of its ability to shoot their spores up to 20 feet away.
  • Slime Mold Slime mold is bright yellow, with a foamy texture. Over time, it darkens to a brown tone and dries, eventually transforming to a white powder.

What Can Property Owners Do to Minimize the Effect of Mold or Fungus?

While fungicides can be used to help deter the invasion of fungal colonies, many property owners prefer to avoid the use of chemical treatments, particularly in kitchen or market gardens. Luckily, most of the common fungal species are very easy to remove with simple hand tools. Avoid excessive watering and keep a close eye on your mulch so you can spot their arrival early. Choosing a high quality, fresh wood mulch can also help to suppress fungal growth.

Do You Need High Quality Wood Mulch for Your Lawn or Garden? Call Wholesale Wood Products

Are you ready to invest in top quality wholesale wood mulch for your home or commercial property? Then call or visit Wholesale Wood Products today. Our specialists are always available to answer any questions you may have. We can also help you choose the perfect mulch variety for your needs, and we also offer bulk delivery for customers in Atlanta, Duluth, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Norcross, Georgia and nearby metro area neighborhoods.