West Seattle Hardwood mulch installation

Homeowner’s Issue

West Seattle yards face a set of repeat problems: heavy winter rain, compacted glacial till soils, shade from big firs and maples, and aggressive groundcover like English ivy and blackberry brambles. Low-lying lots around Alki and the draw toward Lincoln Park collect runoff; that means mulch can wash or compact if laid without shaping or edging. Sunny slopes on the hill toward High Point dry out faster and invite weeds between July and September. Moss is common on compacted soil and shaded beds, and simple top-ups of wood chips won’t fix soil structure or drainage.

Homeowners here want tidy beds that survive long rainy seasons without rotting or becoming a mud trap, and they want sustainable solutions — no synthetic herbicides. That means we focus on improving soil biology with finished compost, correcting grades for runoff, and installing durable edging where needed. Properly installed hardwood mulch suppresses weeds, moderates soil temps, and looks crisp against West Seattle curblines and HOA rules, but only if you address drainage and underlying compaction first. Our approach is practical: fix the root problems, then cover with quality hardwood chips at the right depth so the bed performs through Seattle’s wet winters and bright summer windows.

Our Quality Service

We prep, correct, and install — not just dump wood chips. Typical workflow:

• Assess soil, slope, sun and access; tack problem areas like compaction or drainage.
• Hand-remove weeds, roots, and invasive runners (no herbicides); use manual and mechanical tools as needed.
• Amend with compost where plants need it, then spread hardwood mulch 2–3 inches deep unless specified.
• Install or reset edging to stop washout on slopes and protect curb appeal.

Tools and methods: soil knife, mattock, wheelbarrows, compost spreader, hand tools, and non-chemical weed suppression (fabric or repeated smothering). Timelines: small beds done in a few hours; average front or back yard typically 1 day; larger properties 1–2 days. We work around seasonal rain — spring and early fall give the best results. Benefits include improved curb appeal, safer play surfaces, reduced maintenance, and longer-lasting beds.

What’s Included

• Site clearing: debris, old mulch, and hand-pulled invasive roots.
• Light soil conditioning: compost top-dress where plants need it.
• Mulch application: hardwood chips spread evenly at recommended depth.
• Edging: reset or install to keep mulch in place and prevent washout.
• Cleanup: haul away debris or leave for green-bin pickup (your choice).

Options / upgrades:

• Mulch + landscape fabric for high-weed areas (used sparingly).
• Organic weed-control plan: repeated hand weeding, smothering, and compost top-ups.
• Haul-away vs. green-bin disposal for old mulch and green waste.
• Pathway gravel bands, stepping-stone prep, or planting small shrubs for low-maintenance structure.

Before & After / Expectations

• Noise & mess: expect chainsaw/trimmer noise if we cut back large roots or shrubs; general installs are low-noise. There will be a temporary scattering of debris during prep.
• Access: we need a clear 3–4 ft path for wheelbarrows; if access is tight a slight surcharge may apply.
• Debris handling: choose haul-away (we load and dispose) or green-bin drop at the end.
• Timeline: most yard installs are same-day; larger jobs may require a follow-up visit for edging or planting.
  Care tips for West Seattle:
• Water new plantings during dry summer windows (June–Sept) early morning to conserve water.
• Watch for spring weed flushes after heavy rain; pull young weeds before they set seed.
• Replenish chips lightly each spring — a thin refresh is better than a deep re-layer over compacted soil.
• Address moss by aerating and increasing sun/air circulation rather than chemicals.

FAQs

• Q: Do you use herbicides?
  A: No. We use mechanical removal, smothering, compost, and fabric; sustainable, no herbicides.

• Q: How deep will you put the mulch?
  A: Standard is 2–3 inches for hardwood chips. On slopes we adjust depth and add edging to prevent washout.

• Q: When is best to install in West Seattle?
  A: Late spring or early fall—after major rains but not during peak summer drought heat. We schedule around heavy rain forecasts.

• Q: Can you remove old mulch and invasive roots?
  A: Yes. We offer full haul-away or can leave green waste for your city pickup.

• Q: Will mulch create drainage problems?
  A: Not if we fix compaction and grade properly first. We correct low spots and use edging where runoff is a risk.

Call to Action

West Seattle homeowners: book a free estimate and get a realistic plan that actually lasts through our rainy season. We schedule quick installs and honest timelines for Alki, High Point, and surrounding neighborhoods. Sustainable methods only — no herbicides.

Email: neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com
Phone: 206-538-9344
Licensed • Bonded • Insured

Ready for a tidy, low-maintenance bed that works with West Seattle weather? Reach out and we’ll set up a visit.