BH said:

Would anyone have an opinion/advice to offer? I'm new in FL, Zone 10,
and am just realizing why mulch is so important. Tried to grow some
simple yellow squash, and the only one that is doing anything is the one
right between the spreading oregano and the parsley. But don't like the
bagged cedar stuff, etc. Anyway, saw a "Deluxe Electric Leaf Shredder"
at Gardeners Supply. Doesn't say if it will do small shrub branches,
which I'd like since there is a monster ficus that I have to keep under
control and could use those (under 1" dia) branches. Thanks for any ideas.

To do small branches, you will need a chipper/shredder. The one you were
looking at will not chip branches. Sears sold version of the electric leaf
shredder (which I have), which does a good job on leaves, torn newspaper,
and straw -- as long as they are dry. It doesn't do twigs.
--
Pat in Plymouth MI

Any technology distinguishable from magic is insufficiently advanced.
(attributed to Don Marti)