Dyed Mulch: Tips for Preserving Color

The colorants we use on our dyed mulches provide superior color strength, UV resistance, and color consistency through the use of our colorant dosing system. Even so, there are guidelines to follow to preserve the color and ensure your product maintains its appearance throughout the season.

• You may want to lay down a tarp to prevent temporary discoloration of the ground or driveway surface. If a tarp is not available, wet down the driveway before dumping the mulch, and wash the surface with soap and water after applying the mulch if any visible residue remains.

• Avoid scheduling your delivery and/or application on a day when heavy rain is forecast. If you take delivery and rain is in the forecast, make sure to cover the pile with a tarp.

• Do not spread the mulch if rain is in the forecast. Many people try to "beat the rain" in order to finish a job, but this is not recommended, as dyed material needs to "cure" once spread. You should try to find a window of at least 36–48 hours of rain-free weather to allow for proper drying.

Renewing Color if Washout Occurs

In the event that product washout does occur, you may still be able to remedy the color loss.

• If the material is in a bulk pile and has not yet been spread, the washed product can simply be mixed in with the rest of the mulch, as the color loss should be limited to the surface. There will be enough colored mulch in the pile to blend with the affected material.

• If the material has already been spread, you have two options. However, please keep in mind that the same critical drying time is needed:

  1. Lightly rake the surface. Colorant loss is normally limited to the top half-inch of material. Mulch is typically applied at a depth of two to three inches, leaving plenty of material to cover the surface once it is turned over.

  2. Apply a top coat of an additional half-inch of fresh colored mulch.