When it comes to landscaping, finding the right materials can be a challenge. Mulch plays a significant role in giving your garden a polished, well-maintained look while providing benefits like weed control and moisture retention.
Traditional wood mulch has always been the go-to, but lately, rubber mulch has caught my attention, particularly Rubberific Mulch.
After using it in my garden and around some bushes, I have a lot to share about the experience. If you’re on the fence about trying it, here’s everything you need to know about Rubberific Mulch, including where you can buy it, pros and cons, and tips on how to maintain it.
Spoiler alert: It’s available at most major retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s, so you won’t have any trouble finding it!
First Impressions And Why I Chose Rubberific Mulch
When I first heard about rubber mulch, I was skeptical. The idea of using recycled rubber instead of traditional wood mulch seemed unusual, but the concept intrigued me.
The environmental benefits were a strong pull — recycling old tires and reducing landfill waste while using something durable in my yard felt like a win-win.
I purchased Rubberific Mulch for two main reasons: longevity and weed control. I needed something that wouldn’t blow away in the wind or break down too quickly. Plus, I wanted my landscaping to look fresh for years with minimal maintenance.
After all, I didn’t want to reapply mulch every year, which is a common issue with organic options.
If you’re considering trying Rubberific Mulch, you can find it at Home Depot, Lowe’s, or even through online retailers like Amazon. Prices can vary depending on the size of the bag, so I recommend checking different sellers for the best deals, especially if you’re buying in bulk.
Pros of Rubberific Mulch
I’ll admit, my experience with Rubberific Mulch has been largely positive, though there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages I’ve noticed after using it for some time:
- Longevity: This is where Rubberific Mulch truly shines. Unlike wood mulch that tends to break down within a year or two, rubber mulch stays intact for much longer. I’ve had mine in place for over two years, and it still looks as fresh as the day I laid it down. Many other users report similar results, with some saying it has lasted them eight years or more without needing replacement.
- Low Maintenance: One of the biggest selling points for me is the minimal upkeep. Once you’ve laid down the mulch, you’re pretty much set for years. It doesn’t require frequent reapplication like traditional mulch, and it does a great job at suppressing weeds. For someone like me, who wants a clean yard without constant upkeep, Rubberific Mulch delivers.
- Weather-Resistant: Another feature I love is its ability to stay in place. We’ve had some pretty strong storms, but not a single shred of mulch was blown away. This is a game-changer compared to wood mulch, which often gets scattered after heavy rain or wind. Rubberific Mulch is heavy enough to stay put but light enough to spread easily during installation.
- Color Retention: Over time, wood mulch can fade or lose its vibrant color due to sun exposure. Rubberific Mulch, on the other hand, retains its color for years. The dark tones complement the rest of my yard perfectly, providing that neat, professional look. If you’re going for a specific aesthetic, this mulch helps maintain it without constant replacement.
- Eco-Friendly: Using Rubberific Mulch also means contributing to sustainability. It’s made from 100% recycled rubber, primarily old tires, which would otherwise end up in a landfill. It feels good knowing that I’m helping the environment in a small way while benefiting my garden.
Cons of Rubberific Mulch
Of course, no product is perfect, and Rubberific Mulch has a few downsides that you should consider before purchasing.
- Price: The cost of Rubberific Mulch is noticeably higher than traditional wood mulch. This was one of the biggest drawbacks for me. It’s an investment upfront, especially if you’re covering a large area, but the long-term durability offsets the price in my opinion. If you’re on a budget, this might be a sticking point, but I find the savings in time and replacement costs to be worth it.
- Coverage: Another minor issue is that the bags don’t cover as much area as I anticipated. I had to purchase more bags than I originally thought to cover my garden fully, which added to the overall expense. It’s something to keep in mind, especially if you’re tackling a large landscaping project.
- Initial Smell: I noticed a slight odor when I first opened the bags. It’s not overwhelming, but you can tell it’s made from rubber. Thankfully, the smell dissipates quickly once it’s spread out. If you’re sensitive to smells, this might be a bit off-putting at first, but it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.
Tips For Rubberific Mulch
Maintaining Rubberific Mulch is quite simple, especially compared to organic mulches. However, there are a few steps you can take to ensure it lasts even longer and continues to look great:
- Use Weed Barrier Fabric: While Rubberific Mulch does a great job of suppressing weeds, I recommend laying down a weed barrier fabric underneath for extra protection. This minimizes any chance of weeds breaking through, keeping your garden pristine.
- Rake Occasionally: If you notice the mulch shifting or settling unevenly, a quick rake will do the trick. This is especially helpful after heavy rain or if you notice any compacted areas. Raking helps maintain an even, consistent appearance.
- Edge Your Garden: One thing I’ve learned is that edging around your garden beds can help keep the mulch in place. Although Rubberific Mulch doesn’t blow away easily, edging adds an extra layer of protection against any shifting or scattering.
- Inspect for Wear: Even though rubber mulch is durable, it’s worth inspecting it every year to ensure it’s holding up. While it doesn’t break down like wood, there may be some wear in high-traffic areas. If you notice any thinning spots, you can easily add more mulch to freshen up the look.
Comparing Rubberific Mulch To Other Brands
In my experience, Rubberific stands out for its durability and color retention. Compared to other rubber mulch brands I’ve used in the past, such as Vigoro or NuScape, Rubberific feels slightly heavier, which is beneficial for keeping it in place during bad weather.
While both Vigoro and NuScape offer similar benefits, I found that the Rubberific mulch holds up better in terms of both longevity and overall appearance.
When comparing rubber mulch to traditional wood mulch, the difference is night and day. Yes, wood mulch is more affordable upfront, but the need for regular replacement and its tendency to fade quickly make it less appealing.
Rubber mulch, while more expensive, offers the peace of mind that comes with low maintenance and long-lasting results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The primary downside of rubber mulch is its cost. It’s more expensive than traditional wood mulch, and you may need to buy more bags than anticipated to cover large areas. Additionally, there’s a slight smell upon opening the bags, but it dissipates quickly.
Yes, Rubberific mulch is safe for use in gardens and around plants. It’s made from 100% recycled rubber, and it doesn’t break down into harmful substances. It also doesn’t attract pests or contribute to mold growth, making it a safe option for landscaping.
Rubber mulch is better for long-term use and low maintenance, as it doesn’t decompose and retains its color for years. Traditional mulch, while cheaper, needs frequent replacement and tends to fade or blow away over time. If you’re looking for a lasting solution, rubber mulch is the way to go.
Rubberific Mulch can last for many years, with some users reporting it lasting 8 years or more. Its durability is one of its strongest selling points, making it a cost-effective option for long-term landscaping.
Conclusion: Should You Buy Rubberific Mulch?
If you’re looking for a durable, eco-friendly, and long-lasting mulch option for your landscaping, Rubberific Mulch is a fantastic choice.
Yes, the upfront cost is higher, but the time and effort you save in the long run make it well worth the investment. You can purchase it from major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon, so it’s easily accessible.
Personally, I’m sold on Rubberific Mulch. It has kept my garden looking fresh for years with minimal effort. If you’re tired of replacing mulch year after year or dealing with scattered pieces after a storm, this is the solution for you.
Just be prepared to spend a bit more upfront and ensure you calculate your coverage needs accurately to avoid surprises.