#89 Stone vs Brown Shredded Mulch

#89 Stone

Small angular crushed stone approximately 3/8 inch and smaller. Similar in size to pea gravel but with angular edges that provide better compaction and stability. A versatile fine aggregate used in both construction and landscaping applications.

Brown Shredded Mulch

Shredded bark and wood from trees like oak, hickory, and maple. Retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. Decomposes slowly over time, adding organic matter to the soil. Adds a natural, finished look to landscape beds.

#89 Stone

• ✓ Walkways
• ✓ Pipe bedding
• ✓ Asphalt mix
• ✓ Between pavers
• ✓ Top dressing
• ✓ Drainage backfill

Brown Shredded Mulch

• ✓ Landscape beds
• ✓ Tree rings
• ✓ Garden borders
• ✓ Erosion control
• ✓ Playground surfaces
• ✓ Slope stabilization

#89 Stone

• + Angular edges compact better than rounded pea gravel
• + Small size fills tight spaces
• + Good for pipe bedding and utility trenches
• + Comfortable enough for walkways
• + Excellent drainage

• − Too small for driveway base layers
• − Can migrate without edging
• − Less decorative than pea gravel
• − May be tracked by shoes
• − Not widely stocked at all suppliers

Brown Shredded Mulch

• + Retains soil moisture reducing watering
• + Suppresses weed growth naturally
• + Insulates soil temperature
• + Decomposes to enrich soil over time
• + Attractive natural brown color

• − Needs replenishing every 1-2 years as it decomposes
• − Can attract termites if placed against structures
• − May temporarily rob nitrogen from soil as it breaks down
• − Floats and washes away in heavy rain
• − Can develop mold in overly wet conditions

#89 Stone

Angular crushed stone pieces 3/8" and smaller. Color varies by quarry — typically gray, blue-gray, or tan. The angular shape distinguishes it from similarly-sized pea gravel.

Brown Shredded Mulch

Shredded strips of bark and wood, typically 1-4 inches long. Natural brown color that fades to gray over time. Double-shredded mulch is finer and mats together better, resisting wind and rain displacement.