Mulch offers more than just good looks in a garden. In fact, it’s one of the most effective ways to:
- retain soil moisture
- suppress weeds
- regulate temperature
Depending on the type of mulch you use, it will also gradually break down and add nutrients to the soil. This improves soil health, encourages microbial activity, and attracts worms.
What type of mulch should I buy?
Canberra Sand and Gravel makes our own range of mulch products from the materials people bring to our green waste centres.
Organic mulch
These organic mulches include:
- Forest litter – a refined forest mulch that’s slightly aged and on its way to becoming compost. Ideal for big native gardens.
- Canberra organic – perfect for Canberra gardens and eventually breaks down into a soil.
We’re very proud of our organic mulches as they form a sustainable circular economy right here in our backyard, with Canberra’s green waste being recycled back into Canberra gardens to help them grow.
If you’re only after mulch for the decorative appeal, we also stock a wide range of decorative mulches.

Decorative mulch
Decorative mulches include:
Decorative mulch looks great and will help with temperature regulation, though it won’t always break down and offer the same level of nutrients as organic mulch.
Tan bark and Eucalyptus mulch sit in the middle of decorative and organic mulch. They look good and will break down over time. However, tan bark and eucalyptus mulch are not as effective at keeping in moisture and neither provide the same nutrient value as organic mulch.
Can I use mulch in my veggie garden?
If you’re looking for mulch for your veggie garden, you need a special kind.
The best mulches for veggie gardens include:
We sell these in compressed bags and they’re great for potted citrus trees, legumes, and any veggie patch where you want to get more nitrogen and moisture into the soil.

How much mulch do I need?
If you’re mulching under a tree, spread it out to the drip line.
For native gardens or shrubbery, aim for a layer around 100–200mm thick. To work out how much mulch to buy, use our online calculator.

Find all your mulch needs at Canberra Sand and Gravel
Canberra Sand and Gravel has everything you need to keep your garden beds healthy, vibrant, and beautifully mulched. Order online or visit one of our landscape centres.


