Question
I would like to know what I can put on my beds that will last longer than mulch.I use about 40 cubic yards of mulch every time I need to do it so it gets fairly expensive. Any suggestions???

Answer
Pea gravel or slate chips or lava rock(if thats your taste...its not mine) will all last forever but easily get covered up if you have lots of leaf debris. Add 1-3" of your favorite gravel over a weed barrier (not plastic) and thats all you need to do. Cut holes in it for your shrubs and perennials.

Thats about it other than plastic fake mulch or shredded tires which I am strongly against.

You might try a different kind of mulch, different wood type or pinestraw to see if they last longer than what you currently use. Keep in mind mulch breaks down and adds nutrients to your flower beds. Gravel will not do that so you may need to add fertilizers.

Best of Luck
Sean Murphy

AmenityArchitects.com
SEI (Southeastern Engineering, Inc)