Mulch is a great way to protect your plants and enhance the beauty of your landscape in Colorado. However, it doesn't last forever, and you'll need to replace it periodically to keep it looking its best. So, how long can you expect a mulch ground covering to last? Typically, mulch can last around 4 to 6 years, though this depends on the type of mulch and other factors. You'll also most likely need to refresh it every 1 to 2 years, with every year being ideal, to ensure it continues to provide its intended benefits. Additionally, hiring professionals to install your mulch is best to ensure it's high-quality and done right.


Mulch can usually last 4 to 6 years.

The lifespan of mulch depends on various factors, such as the type of mulch you choose and the environmental conditions it's exposed to. Generally, mulch can last around 4-6 years, though some types decompose faster or slower than others. For example, pine bark mulch can last longer than shredded hardwood mulch. Additionally, sun exposure, rainfall, and other weather conditions can also impact how long it lasts.


You'll most likely need to refresh your mulch ground covering every 1 to 2 years.

Mulched landscape bed in Grand Junction, CO, with tree, shrubs, and stones.

While mulch can last several years, it's important to remember that it will decompose over time, meaning you'll most likely need to refresh it every 1 to 2 years to keep it looking and performing its best. Every year is ideal to ensure it continues to provide its intended benefits, and some signs that it's time to do so are as follows:

  • There are patchy areas in your landscape without mulch: If you notice bare patches in your landscape beds where the mulch has worn away, it's time to refresh it. These bare spots can allow weeds to grow and expose your plants' roots to the elements.
  • The mulch has been washed away or eroded: If you notice that your mulch has been washed away or eroded due to heavy rain or wind, it's time to replace it. This can leave your plants vulnerable to damage and reduce the overall appearance of your landscape.
  • The mulch is losing its color: A fading color on your mulch is a sign that it's time to refresh it. Faded mulch can make your landscape look dull and unattractive, and replenishing it will give it a fresh and refined look.

Hire professionals to install your mulch to ensure it's high-quality and done right.

When it comes to installing mulch, it's best to leave it to the professionals. They will have the experience and expertise to ensure that the job is done right and that your mulch is high-quality and long-lasting. They will also be able to advise you on the best type of mulch for your landscape and ensure that it's installed at the correct depth to provide maximum benefits.

Additionally, landscape professionals will be able to properly prepare your landscape before installing the mulch, which will help to prevent weeds from growing and ensure that your plants receive the nutrients they need. Working with experts to replenish your mulch ensures that it will be done right and that your landscape will look beautiful for years to come.

Your landscape's layer of mulch should be 5 inches thick.

Call us today to schedule our mulch installation service!

If you want to keep your landscape looking its best, our team at Mesa Turf Masters is here to help! We offer a professional mulch installation service to properties in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade, and other surrounding areas in Colorado. Our team will ensure that your landscape beds are properly prepared before installing the mulch to ensure that it provides maximum benefits to your plants. We will also work with you to choose the best type of mulch for your landscape and install it at the correct depth to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Give us a call today at (970) 434-5440 to schedule our mulch installation service!