Other type of mulches that are not organic are classified as inorganic. These types of mulches do not break down into the soil or increase the soil's nutrients, and therefore aren't as beneficial to the flowers in the garden. However, these selections of inorganic mulches may be suited to those who are needing near permanent mulches as a decorative piece instead of a soil enriching item. Depending on your wants and needs, any of these inorganic mulches may be suited to your flower garden.
Applicable to All Listed Inorganic Mulches
All the inorganic mulches in the list below are not a fire hazard and all rate an "excellent" for not being a source of disease or weeds. Most on the list are easily found and can be of varying quality. Rock and similar items can be different colors, also helpful if you are creating a certain color theme.
Crushed Rock
Crushed Rock has an excellent resistance to compaction and is excellent in resistance to wind. It has a good attractiveness and excellent availability.
Black Plastic Film
Black Plastic Film tears upon compaction and is unsatisfactory in wind resistance. It also has an unsatisfactory attractiveness but an excellent availability.
Perlite
Perlite has a good resistance to compaction and a poor resistance to wind. It has a good attractiveness and an excellent availability.
Vermiculite
Vermiculite has a fair resistance to compaction and a poor resistance to wind. It has a fair attractiveness and an excellent availability.
Gravel
Gravel has an excellent resistance to both compaction and wind. It has a good attractiveness and an excellent availability.
Volcanic Rock
Volcanic Rock has an excellent resistance to both compaction and wind. It has a good attractiveness and a good availability.
Geotextile Weed Barrier
A Geotextile Weed Barrier has an excellent resistance to compaction and is unsatisfactory in wind resistance. It also has an unsatisfactory attractiveness and an excellent availability.
Inorganic mulches are usually used over organic ones. This way you have the soil additives of an organic with the attractiveness of most inorganic ones. Many find that black plastic is a weed barrier and will mulch over it, however this isn't a good idea. Mulch under and over black plastic if used (which I don't recommend) so that there is something to break down into the soil underneath the plastic liner.
For More On This Topic:
Organic Mulches For Your Flower Garden That Break Down Quickly
Organic Mulches For Your Flower Garden That Break Down Slowly
Source:
University of Missouri Extension: Mulches
Tina Samuels - Tina Samuels specializes in health, animal, and gardening articles. She authored "A Georgia Native Plant Guide".
