Should you use mulch in flower beds?

Mulch is an important part of a flower bed. According to About.com, mulch keeps plant roots cool, retains moisture, kills weeds and prevents plants from acquiring soil-borne illnesses. However, not all mulch is appropriate for flower beds.

While mulches made out of newspaper, leaves or clipped grass can be used in flower beds, they tend to break down quickly and do not provide many benefits to the flowers. According to SFGate, natural mulches, such as bark dust and wood chips, are ideal for flower beds because they do not degrade quickly and are not overly acidic. Mulch made from pine needles or peat moss can be used in flower beds but should only be used with acid-loving flowers.