Fences can provide privacy, and are a great way to define your Arlington VA yard. The only downside, is that it can be challenging to manage the grass and weeds around them. It’s hard to mow close enough to the fence, so you have to use a trimming device. The solution? Mulch around your fence, to help control the grass and weeds, and make it easier to mow.
Types of Mulch
There are many mulch options; which type of mulch you choose, depends on what kind of fence you have.
For example, wood fences can rot if any type of mulch is piled too high. The mulch – especially organic mulch – holds in moisture. Moisture causes mold, mildew, and rot. Instead, use a rock mulch in a shallow layer touching the wood; the rocks don’t hold moisture against the wood like pine straw or shredded wood.
With metal, PVC or brick fences, you don’t have to worry about rot, so you can use pretty much any type of mulch.
How to Add Mulch Around Your Fence
Remove the grass or weeds within a foot of each side of the fence. Place the landscape fabric (also known as weed blocker) on the ground, and weigh it down with rocks every 4 to 6 feet. Use enough mulch to cover the fabric to about 2 to 4 inches deep (remember to go shallow against the wood fence line to avoid rot.)
Plants
Plants are a wonderful addition to the mulch around your fence. Cutting holes into the landscape fabric, your plants should go in at least 6 inches out from the fence. Bushy, decorative grasses help soften the look of a fence, and blooming annuals create a colorful oasis in your backyard.
Termites
Wood mulch can increase the danger of termites, bringing them to your wood fence and closer to your house. Whenever you use mulch near your house, have your home inspected annually for termites.
For more information about fences in Arlington VA, please contact Carter Fence. Since 1986, Carter Fence has been installing and servicing fences in Vienna VA and the rest of the Northern Virginia area — from tall wood privacy fences to decorative picket fences — and everything in between. Our expert team uses quality materials and advanced installation and design techniques to ensure you get the best fence for your needs.