Organic mulch

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Background

When correctly applied, mulch can provide a number of benefits to increase the overall sustainability of landscapes. Four of the primary benefits from mulch are: (1) the prevention of water loss from the soil, through evaporation; (2) the suppression of weed growth; (3) the moderation of soil temperatures, and (4) the addition of organic nutrients to the soil.

A variety of mulch materials are used in Florida landscapes. The following are some types of organic mulch materials that meet Florida Water Star criteria:

  • Tree bark
  • Wood chips
  • Leaves
  • Pine needles

Requirements and certification

Organic mulch shall be used and applied to a depth of 2 to 4 inches.

Silver Gold Commercial/Institutional
Required Required NA

The Florida Water Star Inspector must visually confirm mulch depth in several locations throughout the landscape.

Pine bark mulch
Pine bark mulch will help keep these newly planted shrubs moist in the dry season

Program tip

In many cases, mulch depth is compliant with this practice. However, it is common that mulch is piled against plant bases. In such a case, Inspectors can recommend that the builder/builder’s representative remediate this problem during the inspection.