MULCH
Mulch can be used for each lot to create outdoor rooms, designate play areas, indicate drainage zones, and cover planting bed areas. Only mulches derived from regenerative resources should be used. Any substitution from the list of approved mulches must be reviewed by the DRB.
For landscape beds, mulch promotes sustainable landscaping by helping to keep the roots of each plant moist, shaded, and free of weeds. All planting beds are required to be mulched with a 3” minimum thick layer of approved mulch. Trees located in turf areas are required to have a 3” thick mulched ring around the center of the trunk and outward. Mulch rings around the tree protect the trunk from damage and increase water and oxygen levels to the roots. Mulch will need to be regularly replaced to maintain overall plant health.
APPROVED MULCH TYPES
PINE STRAW
Best used for slowing/ mitigating water runoff from steep slopes or swales. Pine Straw adds organic matter back into soil and needs to be replaced more regularly due to breakdown. This is the preferred mulch type for landscape beds.
SHREDDED HARDWOOD
Made of recycled hardwood materials, this breaks down less and tends to not wash out as badly as pine bark nuggets. This is the preferred mulch type for hardscape zones, pathways, and playgrounds.
PINE FINES
For groundcovers, the use of pine fines is preferred. Pine fines help to establish groundcovers and promote sustainable growth.
RESTRICTED MATERIAL
ALL Colored Cypress mulches (red/brown/black mulch, etc.) Are strictly prohibited. Chipped or Shredded Rubber Mulch is also prohibited
Natural colored pallet mulch (derived from recycled wood pallets) is prohibited.
Large pine bark nuggets are prohibited due to floating capabilities and potentially damage to drainage systems.
EDGING
Edging may be needed to help define planting beds, prevent the washout of gravel/rock materials, or to delineate different ground plane materials. Edging types listed below must consist of natural or dark color materials. All edging must be maintained or removed and replaced when in bad condition. Edging must also be clear of any community property including the public sidewalk by 18” clear distance. All edging areas must be reviewed and approved by the DRB.
APPROVED EDGING
METAL EDGING
Metal edging should set slightly below the ground plane so it disappears into the landscape. This is the preferred edging material.
PAVER/STONE EDGING
A variety of local materials will be allowed for paver edging. All paver edge must have a natural finish and compliment the architectural style of the home.
CONCRETE EDGING
Poured in place concrete edging is acceptable based on approval from the DRB for the proposed pattern and color of the finish. Colored (red, orange, gold, black, etc.) variations will not be accepted.
RESTRICTED MATERIAL
Plastic edging is not allowed for long term maintenance issues.
Wood timber or railroad ties are not preferred due to sustainability and pest concerns.