Garden spirits differ when it comes to bark mulch: Some praise the material as a panacea that prevents weeds and keeps the moisture in the soil. Others, on the other hand, think that bark mulch has no place in the garden except on paths and under trees - and certainly not in the flower bed. Read what is actually true.

Bark mulch has both advantages and disadvantages

What are the advantages and disadvantages of mulching with bark mulch?

In fact, mulching with bark mulch has both advantages and disadvantages that should not go unmentioned. The material keeps the moisture in the soil and prevents premature drying out during dry periods. Furthermore, bark mulch on the bed reduces the emergence of weeds, which in turn saves you a lot of work. However, this effect should not be overestimated, because as a weed protection layer you would have to spread the bark mulch much thicker than just three to four centimeters. In addition, bark mulch is an organic material and as such decomposes very quickly - but in the process it robs the soil of valuable nutrients, especially nitrogen. These, in turn, are missing from the often heavily consuming flowering shrubs. Only after complete decomposition are the previously bound nutrients released again.

What do you have to watch out for when spreading bark mulch?

However, this disadvantage can be compensated for by applying a suitable long-term fertilizer before mulching and thus ensuring that the plants are adequately supplied. A thick layer of compost under the mulch material also serves this purpose, so that you do not necessarily have to resort to mineral fertilizers. Also make sure that the bark mulch layer is not too thick: three to four centimeters are sufficient. So that weeds still have no chance, you should weed the bed thoroughly beforehand and, above all, remove root weeds deeply. Incidentally, you can also cover bulbous flowers (which include many typical spring bloomers) with bark mulch without worrying, this layer - provided it is not too thick - can be easily pierced in spring.

Alternatives to bark mulch

However, you do not necessarily have to cover the flower bed with bark mulch. Lawn clippings, chopped hedge clippings and straw are particularly suitable for supplying nutrients. If, on the other hand, the bed is to be designed to be easy to care for, it is advisable to create a bed of gravel or stone.

tips

In winter, bark mulch is a proven way to cover the bed and protect the roots of the plants in it from frost.

Category:

Vegetable garden