Mulch is the result of running the trimming or removal debris through a brush chipper or grinder. The mulch is shot into the back of the dump truck. This makes a great and natural top dressing for soil. Nature does this herself as leaf and branch litter fall to the ground to join with fallen trees. This then composts and is recirculated into the living plants thru fungi, microorganisms, earthworms, etc.
To the left is the 1800 Vermeer Brush Chipper. This diesel powered machine pulls brush thru with roller feeders and is capable of chipping 18 inch diameter wood.
BENEFITS OF MULCH
- Insulates the soil, maintaining stable soil temperature.
- Keeps a water‑resistant crust from forming on the soil surface.
- Adds organic matter to the soil necessary to support beneficial soil organisms.
- Returns micronutrients back to the soil.
- Reduces water loss from evaporation.
- Reduces weeds because seeds are unable to get to the soil and germinate.
- Helps prevent soil compaction.
- Reduces maintainence.
Wood chip mulch: landscape boon or bane?
by Linda Chalker‑Scott, PhD.
Mulching saves money, time and promotes better plant health and development.
WHEN APPLYING MULCH
Mulch should be 2” on clay soil and 3” to 4” on well drained soil such as decomposed granite or sand. Never mix fresh mulch into the soil until it has composted (which takes approximately 120 days). Remember to increase your watering time. This allows the water to move thru the mulch and into the soil.
Also keep in mind that you now can decrease your watering frequency.
REQUIREMENTS FOR MULCH DELIVERY
- A level site for a large dump truck.
- A load is 20 to 24 cubic yards (a pile 25'-30' long & 10'-12' wide).
- A load may contain up to 10% debris, slash, chipped palm, etc.
- Free mulch is on a convienence basis only. A scheduled load, not delivered on a convienence basis, can be arranged starting at $60 per load to cover delivery cost.
**LOAD DROPS ARE FINAL**
The truck (above) has just finished dumping.
For Mulch call (619) 443‑1775 or
