Natural rocks and wood mulch are better options ... the same features that make it great for high-traffic areas like playgrounds and walkways can create a problem for sunny flower beds.

That’s because the city adds mulch to the playgrounds annually, and replaces it every three years. The rubber mulch is supposed to be maintenance free for up to five years, Hecker said.

Although the halls and grounds of District 423 schools might be less busy in mid-July, that doesn’t mean all is quiet.