Mulching

About

Mulch is used to protect precious topsoil and inhibit weed growth by covering the areas in landscapes where the soil is exposed. As the organic matter in the mulch decays, the released nutrients feed the plants and beneficial microbes in the soil.

Mulch is typically a loose, fibrous material. The mulch must allow rain and irrigation water to reach the plant roots.

Different Types of Mulches
  • Wood chips
  • Fallen leaves
  • Grass clippings
  • Compost
Benefits of Mulching
  • Prevents erosion
  • Suppresses weeds
  • Retains soil moisture
  • Cools the soil in the summer and warms the soil in the winter
  • Reduces fertilizer demand as the mulch adds soil nutrients as it breaks down
  • Saves diminishing landfill space

To use mulch, apply a 3 to 6 inch layer around trees, shrubs, and within garden beds. It is not recommended to pile the mulch up against tree trunks.

Centralized Mulch

Don't Bag it! Participating in a "Don't Bag It" program or "Grasscycling" means leaving the grass clippings on your lawn after each mowing. These grass clippings enrich your lawn with important nutrients and reduces the demand on diminishing landfill space.

Mowing Grass

 

How to Grasscycle
  • Leave clippings on your lawn after mowing
  • Mow weekly or about every 5-6 days
  • Cut only the top 1/3 of your grass at each mowing
  • Keep your mower blade sharp

 

Free Mulch Programs

Several Cities across the DFW Metroplex offer free mulch to residents. Bring a container and a shovel because they are generally self serve.

The City of Arlington offers free mulch to residents at the Arlington Landfill.
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The City of Burleson offers free mulch to residents at the Recycling & Compost Center.
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The City of Fort Worth offers free mulch to residents at three of their drop-off stations.
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The City of Frisco offers limited free mulch and compost from Texas Pure to residents at the environmental collection center.
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The City of Grapevine offers free mulch to residents at North Main and Dove Road.
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The City of Hurst offers free Christmas tree recycling in December/January and then free mulch in January.
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The City of Lewisville offers free Christmas tree recycling in December/January, then free mulch to residents in January.
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The City of Mansfield offers free Christmas tree recycling in December/January and then free mulch for "Mulch Madness" (dates vary).
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The City of Mesquite offers free mulch and compost to residents at their composting facility.
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The City of Plano offers Texas Pure mulch and compost products for sale at a reasonable price.
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The City of Richardson partners with Texas Pure to provide mulch and compost to residents (See Plano).
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The City of Southlake accepts leaves and Christmas trees for recycling and then offers free mulch on select dates.
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Some tree services also offer free mulch to the public:
Personal Touch Tree Service

Preservation Tree

Chippers Tree Service

*If you own a business that offers free mulch, please contact us to be listed on this page.

Disclaimer: The presence of any business on this site does not imply an endorsement by NCTCOG or the TCEQ. Locations and information may be inaccurate or out-of-date. Please call the facility or visit their website to verify before visiting.