In the dry, sun-drenched yards of Salt Lake City, one debate continues to divide neighbors: landscape rock or bark mulch? Both materials are popular across Utah for a reason—they’re beautiful, functional, and designed to survive the state’s tough climate. But which one truly wins when it comes to value, sustainability, and curb appeal?

Today, we break down the gravel vs. mulch landscaping battle, comparing both materials from the lens of Salt Lake City homeowners. Whether you’re upgrading your curb appeal or planning a drought-tolerant backyard makeover, this guide will help you make the right call.

Gravel: The Rock-Solid Favorite in Utah Yards

Decorative gravel is more than just practical—it’s a statement. Homeowners love the clean, structured look of rock beds, and with so many sizes and colors available (like South Town Tan or Red Lava), it’s easy to find the perfect fit.

Pros of Gravel in Salt Lake City:

• Extremely low-maintenance — never needs replacing.
• Ideal for drought-tolerant landscaping in Utah’s hot, dry climate.
• Resistant to mold, pests, and decomposition.
• Helps with water drainage and erosion control on sloped lots.

Cons of Gravel:

• Retains heat, which can stress nearby plants during summer.
• More expensive up front.
• Not ideal for planting beds unless paired with drip irrigation.

If you’re looking for a permanent solution for walkways, xeriscapes, or rock gardens, gravel is hard to beat.

Bark Mulch: The Organic Crowd Pleaser

Bark mulch appeals to homeowners who love the natural, earthy look. It feels cozy and blends well with lawns, trees, and garden beds. But how does it compare to gravel in Utah’s climate?

Pros of Bark Mulch in Salt Lake City:

• Improves soil health over time by breaking down into nutrients.
• Shields plant roots from extreme temperature swings.
• Retains moisture, helping reduce your watering schedule.
• Easy to spread and refresh as needed.

Cons of Bark Mulch:

• Needs replenishing every 1–2 years.
• Can blow away in high winds or wash out in storms.
• Attracts some insects if applied too thickly or near foundations.

If you’re planning flower beds, tree rings, or moisture-loving garden spaces, mulch might be the better match.

What Salt Lake City Homeowners Are Choosing in 2025

More Utah residents are combining both. You’ll see gravel borders and pathways paired with mulched planting zones for the best of both worlds.

• In foothill areas, gravel is used for erosion control.
• In tree-heavy neighborhoods, mulch dominates to nurture shallow roots.
• In modern xeriscapes, both materials are integrated with drought-tolerant plants and drip lines.

No matter what team you’re on, the key is understanding how each material performs in Utah’s unique environment.

Ready to Rock (or Mulch)? We Deliver Salt Lake City’s Favorites

Visit DIY Landscape Supply to explore our premium bark mulch and decorative gravel selections. Whether you’re team bark or team gravel—or both—we offer local delivery in Salt Lake City to get your project moving fast.

FAQs

1. Is bark mulch or gravel better for drought-tolerant landscaping in Salt Lake City?
Gravel requires no water and reflects heat, making it ideal for xeriscaping. Mulch retains moisture and benefits plant roots, which is also useful in drought—but it breaks down over time. Many Utah homeowners use both strategically.

2. How often do I need to replace bark mulch in Utah?
Typically every 1–2 years. Harsh sun and dry wind can cause it to fade or decompose faster. Applying 2–3 inches and refreshing annually keeps it looking fresh.

3. Does gravel affect plant health in Utah?
It can! Gravel can raise soil temperatures, which may harm delicate plants. However, paired with heat-tolerant shrubs and proper irrigation, it can be very effective.

4. What’s the most budget-friendly choice: mulch or gravel?
Mulch has a lower upfront cost but needs replacing. Gravel is more expensive initially but lasts for decades. If you’re doing a long-term backyard upgrade, gravel may offer more value over time.