Tiny black stones forming a dark background.

When Should I Replace My Garden Supplies?

Gardening is a full-time job, depending on how much time you want to invest in your yard and the types of supplies you want to use. In fact, garden materials can make a big difference regarding maintenance and the various benefits they offer. 

One important factor is how long a material lasts. This is vital because some might need to be replaced more often than others so your landscaping can reap the full benefits.

In this blog post, we discuss the longevity of some of the most popular garden supplies, so you can make the best choice for your garden.

Soil

Soil is probably the one garden material you’ll want to keep an eye on when it comes to replacement. Fresh soil is nutrient-rich, ensuring plants get the nourishment they need, however, this depletes steadily over time. 

Water, sun, and air play major roles in keeping soil healthy, however, if you notice it seems to be hard and won’t retain water as well as it once did, it might be time to replace the soil.

With that being said, with soil it’s not really a matter of when, but a matter of what you observe. Pay attention to plants drying out or if you’re dealing with potted plants, whether the water runs straight through the pot (this means there isn’t enough organic material in the soil to retain moisture).

If you notice your plants are doing poorly due to soil, it’s time to change it up. Bear in mind that the type of soil you use can make a difference. Opt for perlite, peat moss, or pine bark, which are high-quality, organic varieties.

Landscaping Stones

If you use garden pebbles in your flowerbeds, the good news is that you won’t have to worry about frequent replacements. Natural river rocks are durable, low maintenance, and most likely won’t need to be replaced for a few years at least.

Stone GardenThat’s what makes them a favorite option for landscape projects, including driveways, garden pathways, and outdoor living spaces.

Mulch

Another popular garden material is mulch. Like landscaping stones, it can be a formidable moisture retainer for plants, stopping runoff and providing warmth during the cooler months. However, mulch doesn’t last as long as a rock.

Like soil, the first thing you’ll want to do is check out the condition of your mulch at the start of spring. If the color and composition are the same as when you first laid it down, it’s probably good to go for another year. In general, you’ll want to replace mulch once per year.

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