Mulch glue is one of the handy tools in a gardener’s toolbox when it comes to mulch.
If you’ve been mulching for a while, you’ve probably heard about mulch glue.
Put simply, mulch glue (AKA mulch adhesive or mulch binder) is a product that helps keep mulch together. This prevents mulch from blowing or washing away.
Let’s get into the details.
What Exactly IS Mulch Glue?
Strictly speaking, mulch glue is a landscape adhesive that binds the particles of the mulch together and helps stick it to the landscape bed. There are several types of mulch glue that is available on the market:
- Liquid mulch glue: This is the most common form of mulch glue and is sold in a concentrated form that needs to be diluted before application. Once diluted you can use a spray bottle to apply it to the mulch.
- Powdered mulch glue: As the name suggests, this is mulch glue that is sold in powdered form. Mix the powder with water to create a ‘slushie’ type consistency and then apply it to the mulch. These types of mulch glues have a longer shelf life than liquid mulch.
- Spray-on mulch glue: This is a ready-made formula that can be applied to your mulch. They are usually bought in spray cans or other spray containers. Because they are already made, they are not as cost-effective as liquid or powdered mulch glue alternatives.
Mulch glue is usually made from different types of adhesive compounds including acrylic, rubber, and polyurethane. Generally speaking, acrylic-based adhesives are great for sun (UV) resistance and weather resistance. Polyurethane is suitable for multi-purpose applications and different mulch types. Rubber is generally reserved for larger landscaping applications.
Why Should I Use Mulch Glue?
If you find your mulch is regularly displaced and is in areas where it shouldn’t be (such as on your lawn, pathways, and driveway), then it may be worth considering mulch glue.
But why does mulch get displaced in the first place?
The main reasons for mulch being displaced include strong winds, pests, birds, slopes, and rain.
All these factors can cause your mulch to be picked away, fly, float, or even drift away.
It’s pretty obvious why you don’t want this to happen.
If your garden is constantly losing mulch, it’ll naturally start losing the benefits of mulch in the first place. Benefits like nutrients (in the case of organic mulch), soil protection, temperature regulations, and weed suppression will all be lost or impacted if mulch is significantly displaced.
Therefore; to help ensure a healthy garden, using mulch glue can be a great option.
Where Should Mulch Glue Be Used?
Mulch glue should be used in areas that a) have mulch and b) are prone to mulch displacement.
So what are these areas?
If your garden has a slope, then it’s worth using mulch glue. It’ll help keep the mulch in place and prevent it from sliding down the slope during rain or heavy wind.
Areas that have a lot of activity – either animal or human – can be protected with mulch glue. Think of areas near or around footpaths and driveways.
There may be an area of your garden that is prone to more erosion than the rest. If your mulch is near a stream, river, or even storm drain, then it’s worth considering the use of mulch glue.
In general, mulch glue can be used for most areas of your garden. After all, it adds an aesthetic quality to your landscape by keeping your mulch neat and tidy.
Benefits Of Mulch Glue
There are several clear benefits to using mulch glue.
The primary benefit is that it keeps mulch in place and so allows mulch to keep doing what it’s doing (and that’s a good thing). It’ll also help prevent the mulch from eroding due to winds or rain.
Since the mulch is stuck in place, you’ll also save time maintaining it. Less time will be spent raking and rearranging mulch. You’ll even save some money too since you won’t have to replenish or replace your mulch as often.
All of these benefits lead to one thing: a more beautiful, manicured, and clean-looking garden and lawn.
Choosing The Right Mulch Glue
There are lots of different mulch glues on the market. It’s best to consider several factors before choosing which one is the right one for your mulch.
Different types of mulch are suitable for different types of mulch glue. Have a browse of different mulch glues and you’ll notice some of them can be used for virtually any mulch, whilst others are for specific mulch types.
Size the mulch glue. For small areas, consider using spray-on mulch glue. For larger areas, look to use liquid and powdered options which will be more cost-effective. The level of coverage will be indicated on the bottle.
Consider the climate and weather. Some types of mulch glue are better at withstanding heavy rain, UV rays, or low temperatures. Select a glue that is suitable for your environment. If you live in a cold climate, choose a glue that performs well during freezing temperatures. Similarly, you’d want mulch glue that can withstand high temperatures and intense sunshine if you live in a dry and hot environment.
Many mulch glues are reported to be non-toxic. This makes these types of glues a safer option if you have pets or young children.
