Responsible Wood Chip Disposal

Wood chips are a versatile and eco-friendly option for various gardening and landscaping needs. Produced from the by-products of tree trimming and land clearing, they provide a practical solution for reducing waste and enhancing soil health.

Below, we’ll explore the many benefits and uses of wood chips, and how Sertich Tree Solutions in San Antonio, TX, is making them accessible to the community through a partnership with ChipDrop.

What Can Wood Chips Be Used For?

Wood chips are just wood chips, right? Chipped wood is actually extremely beneficial for many applications. Below are some common uses for wood chips.

Garden Mulch

Wood chips make excellent garden mulch. They help retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature and reduce soil erosion. Over time, as they decompose, they also improve soil fertility and structure.

Landscaping Paths

Wood chips are often used for creating natural-looking paths in gardens and parks. They provide a soft surface that is easy to walk on and can help with water drainage.

Weed Suppression

By applying a thick layer of wood chips around plants and garden beds, weeds are less likely to grow. The chips block sunlight from reaching weed seeds, thus preventing their germination and growth.

Playground Padding Or Cover

Wood chips are a popular choice for playgrounds as they provide a cushioned surface that can help reduce injuries from falls. They are also relatively low maintenance and environmentally friendly.

Composting Material

Wood chips can be added to compost piles as a source of carbon. They help balance the nitrogen-rich materials like food scraps and grass clippings, facilitating the composting process.

Animal Bedding

Wood chips are used as bedding material for livestock and pets. They help absorb moisture and odors, providing a clean and comfortable environment for animals.

Erosion Control

Wood chips can be spread over bare soil on slopes and embankments to help control erosion. They protect the soil from the impact of rain and slow down the flow of water.

Mushroom Cultivation

Certain types of mushrooms — such as shiitake and oyster mushrooms — can be grown on wood chips. The chips provide a substrate that supports the growth of the mycelium, which is the vegetative part of the fungus.

Decorative Ground Cover

Wood chips can enhance the aesthetic appeal of garden beds and landscaping projects. They come in various colors and sizes, allowing for creative designs and finishes.

Pet Areas

In areas designated for pets, wood chips can be used to create a clean and durable surface. They help manage waste and odors, making them ideal for dog runs and kennels.

Moisture Retention In Potted Plants

A layer of wood chips on top of the soil in potted plants helps retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering and promoting healthy plant growth.

Soil Amendment

As wood chips decompose, they add organic matter to the soil, improving its structure, aeration and nutrient content. This is particularly beneficial in clay or sandy soils.

By utilizing wood chips in these various ways, you can take advantage of their natural properties to enhance your garden, landscape and overall environment.

Sertich: Here For you

After a day of land clearing, our trucks are full of wood chips. While it may be tempting to scour the neighborhood asking, “What some salsa with those chips?” we know there’s a better way.

At Sertich, we’re proud to partner with ChipDrop, a local organization that helps homeowners receive free wood chips from their area arborists. This partnership not only provides a valuable resource to the community but also promotes sustainable practices and reduces waste.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how you can benefit from using wood chips in your next project.