Brown Shredded Mulch vs Mexican Beach Pebble
Side-by-side comparison of Brown Shredded Mulch and Mexican Beach Pebble to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Shredded bark and wood from trees like oak, hickory, and maple. Retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. Decomposes slowly over time, adding organic matter to the soil. Adds a natural, finished look to landscape beds.
Mexican beach pebbles are smooth, naturally tumbled stones commonly used in modern and decorative landscaping. They are prized for their uniform shape, rich color, and polished appearance.
Common Uses
Brown Shredded Mulch
- ✓ Landscape beds
- ✓ Tree rings
- ✓ Garden borders
- ✓ Erosion control
- ✓ Playground surfaces
- ✓ Slope stabilization
Mexican Beach Pebble
- ✓ Decorative landscaping
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Planters
- ✓ Water features
Pros & Cons
Brown Shredded Mulch
- + Retains soil moisture reducing watering
- + Suppresses weed growth naturally
- + Insulates soil temperature
- + Decomposes to enrich soil over time
- + Attractive natural brown color
- − Needs replenishing every 1-2 years as it decomposes
- − Can attract termites if placed against structures
- − May temporarily rob nitrogen from soil as it breaks down
- − Floats and washes away in heavy rain
- − Can develop mold in overly wet conditions
Mexican Beach Pebble
- + Very attractive appearance
- + Smooth texture
- + Long-lasting
- + Low dust
- − Expensive
- − Poor traction
- − Can shift easily
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Brown Shredded Mulch | Mexican Beach Pebble |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $40 | $120 – $200 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $45 | $150 – $240 |
Sizes & Colors
Brown Shredded Mulch
Shredded strips of bark and wood, typically 1-4 inches long. Natural brown color that fades to gray over time. Double-shredded mulch is finer and mats together better, resisting wind and rain displacement.
Mexican Beach Pebble
Available in sizes from 1" to 3". Commonly black, charcoal, or dark gray.
Published February 11, 2026
Compare prices from local suppliers
Get quotes from gravel suppliers near you to find the best deal.