The garden is much more than just a green space; it is a haven of peace, a place where one can recharge and enjoy nature. In this context, the choice of materials that will make up this garden is essential, and mulching occupies a central place. Indeed, good mulching protects plants, improves soil structure, and allows water savings by limiting evaporation. In 2025, with the emphasis on ecology and sustainability, making the right choice becomes crucial. This article explores the different types of mulches, from organic to mineral solutions, while considering their cost, advantages, and disadvantages.

Discovering Organic Mulches: Why Choose Them?

Organic mulches, often at the forefront of gardening choices, are appreciated for their ability to enrich the soil as they decompose. They are generally made of natural materials, such as leaves, straw, or cocoa shells. Not only do they provide nutrients, but they also offer a natural aesthetic to your garden. Here are the advantages of these mulches:

• Improvement of soil structure: As they decompose, these mulches nourish the soil and increase its capacity to retain water.
• Moisture retention: A thickness of 5 to 10 cm can significantly reduce water evaporation.
• Protection against frost: They help regulate soil temperature, thus protecting roots from extreme fluctuations.
• Weed elimination: By blocking light, these mulches reduce the growth of undesirable species.
• Aesthetic: They add a natural touch, enhancing the appearance of flower beds and vegetable gardens.

Among the different types of organic mulches available, some stand out due to their particular characteristics. Here are a few:

RAM (Ramial Wood Mulch)

RAM is a highly prized mulch composed of shredded branches and leaves. At a cost of around €10 per m³, it has several advantages. During the first year, it absorbs nitrogen, which can slow plant development. However, after this period, it effectively nourishes the soil.

Cocoa Shells

These shells are not only decorative thanks to their dark brown color, but they also emit a pleasant scent. However, their cost can reach up to €150 per m³, and it is important to note that they are toxic to dogs due to the theobromine they contain.

Pine Bark

This mulch is appreciated for its durability and its acidifying effect on the soil, making it ideal for certain plants such as azaleas. According to suppliers, the price ranges between €50 and €80 per m³.

Mineral Mulches: Durability and Aesthetics

Mineral mulches, such as gravel, pebbles, or slate, offer an aesthetic and durable alternative. One of the main advantages of these mulches lies in their longevity. Once installed, they can remain in place for 15 to 20 years with little maintenance. But beware, they also have disadvantages, notably:

• Lack of nutrients: Unlike organic mulches, minerals do not nourish the soil.
• Excessive heating: They can cause excessive warming of the soil, especially in summer.
• Weight: Some minerals can be heavy, making handling difficult over large surfaces.

These different types of mineral mulches include:

White Pebbles

They add a bright touch to the garden, but their aesthetic side can quickly drive up costs, with some exceeding €200 per m³.

Slate

This is a mulch that gives a modern look, with prices ranging around €100 to €150 per m³, but beware of its tendency to heat up.

Pozzolan

Made of volcanic rock, this mulch is relatively light and aesthetic. It costs between €50 and €150 per m³ and can retain moisture longer than other mineral rocks.

Plastic or Textile Mulching: Advantages and Disadvantages

Plastic mulching, often made of geotextile fabrics, is used to restrict weed growth while retaining moisture. Although practical, these mulches are not always ecological. Plastic degrades slowly in nature and can release chemical substances, which poses a risk to the environment and plants. Here are some aspects to consider:

• Ease of installation: Textile mulches are easy to lay, especially when combined with mineral elements.
• Limited lifespan: A coconut fiber mulch can decompose after 3 to 4 years.
• Weed prevention: By preventing germination, they reduce long-term maintenance.

Practical Conclusions on Choosing Mulches

It is essential to adapt the choice of mulching to the specificities of the garden. For example, a vegetable garden can benefit from organic mulching, while a flower bed will be more aesthetic with mineral mulching. Using products available in large stores like Leroy Merlin, Jardiland, or Botanic can offer a wide range of solutions. For bulk purchases, retailers such as Carrefour Jardin or Gamm Vert can prove advantageous.

Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Mulch

There are several pitfalls to avoid when installing mulch, whether organic or mineral:

• Do not use a tarp under organic mulches: This prevents proper decomposition and promotes weed growth.
• Forget the border: Installing mineral mulches next to organic mulches without separation can lead to cross-contamination.
• Respect the thickness: Insufficient mulch application can reduce its effectiveness against weeds.

It is also worth remembering that poor mulching choices can be costly in the long run. Buying bulk materials rather than bags can lead to significant savings.

Where to Buy Mulch?

For those wishing to save when purchasing their mulch, several solutions are available. Many farmers offer RAM at competitive prices. For example, near Les Jardins de chez Ikea, organic mulch can be found at attractive prices.

Online sales sites like Plantes et Jardins or BHV also offer a wide selection. In 2025, it is advisable to favor bulk purchases to limit shipping costs and benefit from discounts.

Also worth considering is material recycling. Dead leaves from your own garden can be used as mulch, as can grass clippings.