Mulch FAQ’s

 

1. Are the colourants safe for my plants and animals?

The colourants in coloured mulch are safe for people, animals, and the environment. In fact, recent independent laboratory studies looked at coloured mulch very closely to determine its toxicity. In the studies, toxicity is tested using a variety of reaction types — from acute oral, skin, and inhalation toxicity to eye and skin irritation. The results place the colourant used in coloured mulch into the lowest and safest level of toxicity possible — Category IV ― the same level as the sugar you put in your coffee (which is not to say we recommend consuming it). By contrast, table salt and baking soda have higher levels of toxicity.

 

2. What are my color options for mulch?

 

Coloured mulch is available in a variety of vivid, UV-resistant options. Great Lakes Premium Wood Products carries Premium Black, Premium Brown, Premium Red and Premium Gold.  We also carry Natural Cedar and Pine and Premium Coloured Pine in rich Merlot and Black.

 

3. How much mulch should I apply?

As a general rule of thumb, you should apply mulch at a depth of two to four inches depending on your soil condition and the region where you live such as a wet cool climate or dry with high temperatures.   The goal is to keep your soil moist not wet, reduce weed growth and moderate the soil temperature.  

 

4. How long does the mulch maintain its colour?

Colour-enhanced mulch will typically maintain its colour for more than one year, compared to other mulches although fading in not uncommon over several months of hot sunny temperatures. Natural Cedar will quickly turn Grey when there are long sunny days. A gentle raking to rotate the mulch resolves this in most cases bringing pieces unaffected by the sun’s rays to the surface. 

 

5. Is mulch detrimental to plant growth?

No. Using mulch will actually help your plants grow better by inhibiting weed growth and preventing weeds from breaking through the soil. Mulch also keeps the soil surface cool and helps it retain moisture. Another added bonus is the beauty and variety that mulch brings to your landscape appearance.

 

6. Does mulch deplete nitrogen levels in the soil?

As the mulch wood breaks down initially, it will use up some of the nitrogen in the soil. However, after the fiber decomposes, it will restore the nitrogen back to the soil.

 

7. How often is re-mulching required?

Raking the mulch at four to six month intervals will rejuvenate the beds and allow additional aeration to plant roots, which is beneficial for plant growth. After about a year (and on a yearly basis thereafter), rake the mulch bed, then top dress it with one to two inches of new mulch. 

 

8. How long does it take to have your mulches delivered?

 

Typically, Great Lakes Wood Products delivers within 24 hours of your call. We can accommodate both “Before Business Hours” and Weekend deliveries as well. 

 

9. Do you deliver to Home Owners directly? 

 

No. Great Lakes Wood Products has an extensive distribution network of service partners who are able to provide our Premium Mulches to both private and commercial users. Please see our Distributors List or call for the distributor in your area.

 

10. Can I become a Distributor for Great Lakes Wood Products? 

 

Yes. Please contact Great Lakes Wood Products for details. Our load size is from a minimum of 100 cubic yards up to 135 cubic yards and can be shipped to your facility or drop shipped to a location of your choice.

 

11. What is your mulch made from?

 

Great Lakes Premium mulches are made from quality wood products. The wood comes from pallets, pallet cut-offs and industrial lumber. We do not use construction and demolition material and any metals such as nails are meticulously removed during our screening process.