Chipper, Shredder or Mulcher?

If you don’t know the difference between a chipper, shredder and mulcher then maybe we can help?

First of, all three of these terms can be used to describe the same tool. You know the sort of thing, a machine that takes branches, twigs, trees and leaves and transforms them into compact chippings, a coleslaw-style shredded mixture or a mulch that is perfect for composting.

The clever thing is that the majority of these machines allow you to select your required output, whether that be chipped, shredded or mulched. Each variety can be used in different ways – chipped wood is good for fires and on paths while mulched and shredded output is ideal for use in composts and over bedding areas as it is packed with healthy nutrients.

Advantages of using a chipper, shredder or mulcher

Many local councils charge for depositing large amounts of garden refuse. By using a chipper/ shredder/mulcher you can quickly reduce the amount of waste by turning unwieldy branches into a few bags of wood chips or mulch.

So that’s one way that a shredder can save money, another is that by shredding your garden debris you can create compost for use in your own garden. It will go a long way, and means you wont need to shell out for expensive pre-prepared compost from the local garden centre.
Finally, you’ll save money by being able to do all your pruning, lopping and garden maintenance without having to bring in an expensive landscaping firm.

With that in mind, it is clear why so many are keen to add a chipper/shredder/mulcher to your garden shed.