Rubber Mulch - Creative Backyard Design Using Mulch

Have you ever thought of rubber mulch as more than just an alternative for traditional landscaping? Beyond its practical applications, rubber mulch offers an artistic medium for those seeking innovative outdoor designs. With its diverse color range, rubber mulch provides homeowners with ample opportunities to craft one-of-a-kind backyards. As the year draws to a close, consider exploring these imaginative and delightful DIY projects with rubber mulch.

Whimsical wonderland

You can get inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s amazing account of one young girl’s adventures after tumbling down a rabbit hole. Simply take your favorite elements from the story: a checkerboard field, giant chessboard pieces, flamingo croquet “hammers”, rose shrubs, etc., and work with rubber mulch to help turn your own backyard into a Wonderland.

For instance, one of the easiest Wonderland ideas to execute would be a checkerboard pattern. Alternate 32 square stone pavers in a grid with squares of colored rubber mulch. You can choose green, red, black, or any color to represent a giant chess or checkers game. If you’re feeling particularly creative, you can have wooden or stone chess pieces made to stand on the squares!

Rustic relaxation

Even in a highly urbanized area, you can summon the look and feel of a cabin retreat in the mountains just by using rubber mulch. Earth-colored mulch surrounding irregularly shaped flagstones forming a path through the “woods” can make you feel removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. With trees, rocks, and other rustic elements in place, simply stepping outside can make it seem like you’re on a vacation.

Zen zone

Fancy the minimalist appeal of a Japanese rock garden? With slate-colored rubber mulch, you can have your own Zen-inspired corner in no time. A few boulders, some tōrō (Japanese stone lantern), and maybe a koi pond added to your backyard, and you will feel transported to a meditative and serene time and place.

Fantastic fire pit

At times, backyards might not be conducive for lush green grass. Instead of seeing this as a limitation, envision a sandy beach patio crowned with a fire pit. Using red rubber mulch encircling a sturdy stone fireplace can metamorphose your outdoor space into a snug hub. Ideal for colder days, this setting beckons for sunset viewings, spontaneous sing-alongs, and toasty marshmallow roasting sessions—all without venturing far from the comforts of your home.

Embracing rubber mulch's versatile attributes not only promotes sustainable landscaping but also opens the doors to a realm of creative possibilities. Your backyard is a canvas; let rubber mulch be one of the vibrant colors on your palette.

Resources:

http://www.houzz.com/photos/label/rubber-mulch/p/8

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/145241156704348598/

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