 Mulch cautions
Mulching is the least-toxic, most effective strategy for preventing weeds. Most mulches are natural, organic products and good for the garden. A few may pose hazards to people, pets or the environment.
- Color-enhanced mulches may contain dyes with harmful ingredients that can leach into the soil.
- Cocoa hull mulch smells like chocolate at first and improves soil as it breaks down, but it can be harmful or fatal to dogs if swallowed.
- Landscape fabric and plastic film used on slopes prevents stormwater from soaking in and can cause runoff into storm drains, rivers and streams.
- Rubber mulch, if made with recycled tires, may leach toxic heavy metals into the soil.
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