Brown Shredded Mulch vs Construction Gravel
Side-by-side comparison of Brown Shredded Mulch and Construction Gravel to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
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.
Construction gravel is a broad category of mixed-size stone used for general building and site work. It typically includes a combination of crushed stone sizes suitable for base preparation and structural fill.
Common Uses
Brown Shredded Mulch
- ✓ Landscape beds
- ✓ Tree rings
- ✓ Garden borders
- ✓ Erosion control
- ✓ Playground surfaces
- ✓ Slope stabilization
Construction Gravel
- ✓ Construction sites
- ✓ Base layers
- ✓ Backfill
- ✓ Temporary roads
Pros & Cons
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
Construction Gravel
- + Versatile material
- + Readily available
- + Cost-effective
- + Suitable for many applications
- − Inconsistent sizing
- − Not decorative
- − Varies by supplier
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Brown Shredded Mulch | Construction Gravel |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $40 | $15 – $35 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $45 | $20 – $50 |
Sizes & Colors
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.
Construction Gravel
Mixed crushed stone sizes ranging from fines to 1" or larger. Color varies by quarry source.
Published February 11, 2026
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