Mold on mulch
What is Sour Mulch?
Wood mulch storage techniques significantly affect product quality.
Sour mulch is a rare but notable problem that may occur when using previously stockpiled wood by-products for mulching.
Sources and Benefits of Organic Mulch
Wood chips and bark nuggets are widely used as mulches in landscapes.
These materials can be produced by landscape contractors grinding wood waste, or obtained from sawmills and pulping operations.
Organic mulches offer numerous benefits, including stabilizing soil, moderating soil temperature, retarding weed development, and reducing the evaporation of soil moisture. They also enhance the aesthetic qualities of landscapes.
Recognizing the Effects of Sour Mulch on Plants
When affected mulch is applied, plants can begin to wilt within half an hour.
Foliage of plants such as tulips, Phlox, Astilbe, and violets may turn white or light tan, appearing as if bleach has been applied.
Turf adjacent to the mulched areas can also be adversely affected.
Ensure Proper Mulch Application
Knowing how much mulch is needed is key for its proper application in your landscape.
For accurate planning, use our [mulch calculator](/) to easily determine the correct quantity for your project.
Key takeaways
- Wood mulch quality is significantly influenced by storage techniques.
- Sour mulch is a rare but serious issue linked to previously stockpiled wood by-products.
- It can cause rapid plant wilting and discoloration, impacting both cultivated plants and adjacent turf.
Related tools
Estimate materials with our mulch calculator on MulchCalcs.