July 17, 2025

Mulch vs. Stone: Which is Better for Your Landscaping Project

When planning a landscaping project, it's easy to get caught up in the more exciting stuff, such as picking out plants, designing a patio or buying the perfect backyard fire pit. But one of the most important decisions that is often overlooked is what you're putting on the ground.

Mulch and stone are two of the most popular materials used to cover and finish outdoor spaces. They're both great for numerous reasons, but choosing which one is right for your yard depends on how the space is used, the amount of upkeep you want and the overall style you're looking for.

Here's a breakdown of both options:

Mulch

Mulch is a classic choice for garden beds, trees and areas where you're growing flowers or shrubs. It's made from materials such as bark, wood chips or shredded leaves, and as it breaks down, it can improve your soil.

Pros

It keeps moisture in the soil, which is great for hot summers
It naturally suppresses weeds
It adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down
It offers a soft, natural look to most spaces
It's more affordable upfront

Cons

It needs to be replaced every year or two
The color can fade over time
It can attract insects if applied too thickly
It can wash out during heavy storms if it isn't installed properly

Stone

Stone, whether it's crushed gravel, pea stone or decorative river rock, is a more permanent solution. It's an excellent option for areas that don't require regular planting or for places with high foot traffic.

Pros

It's low maintenance and long-lasting
It doesn't attract pests or mold
It provides great drainage and is suitable for dry areas
Its color and shape hold up for years
It's ideal for pathways, borders and around patios

Cons

The upfront cost is higher compared to mulch
It can get hot in the full sun, which could stress nearby plants
It doesn't break down, so it won't enrich the soil
It can be harder to move or change once installed

How to choose

When trying to decide which is the right choice for you, it's essential to consider:

What is the space used for? If it's full of plants, mulch is a better choice. For walkways or decorative spaces, stone may be a more ideal choice.
How much time do you want to spend maintaining it? Stone wins on longevity, but mulch is easier to refresh later.
What's your budget? Mulch is cheaper in the short term, but stone pays off long term.
What style are you going for? Mulch provides a soft, more natural feel, while stone offers a cleaner and modern look.

Mixing mulch and stone

Some of the most visually appealing landscapes incorporate both mulch and stone. When using both, mulch is often installed in planting beds and stone is used for edging, drainage areas or walkways. The contrast of the two can make a yard stand out. Using both also lets each material shine where it works best.

Conclusion

There isn't really a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to deciding between mulch and stone. It ultimately comes down to how you utilize your space and how much maintenance you're willing to handle. If you're unsure, we're happy to help you determine what's best for your yard.