Bark mulch protects the soil from drying out and reduces weather-related erosion. At the same time, the material keeps weeds in check. However, it is important that you pay attention to the size of the bark pieces. This is crucial for the most efficient protection possible.
Coarse bark mulch decomposes more slowly
You must pay attention to this
The grain size of the bark mulch has an influence on the air circulation. The smaller the grit, the more restricted soil aeration and the more waterlogged the substrate. At the same time, the effectiveness of bark mulch against weeds is limited. Therefore, do not choose a material that is too fine. Products with sizes between 0.5 and 80 millimeters are commercially available. Special markets offer decorative substrates with pieces of bark up to 120 millimeters in size. A rule of thumb states that the larger the area to be covered, the larger the pieces of mulch should be.
Sizing tips
- fine substrates decompose faster to humus
- Conditions must be renewed more regularly
- coarser variants provide more effective and longer-lasting protection
- fresh mulch (€239.00) with a pleasant forest smell decomposes more slowly
- optical preferences influence the choice
Flower boxes and planters
A fine material with a grain size of between five and 20 millimeters is sufficient to cover the potting soil in the pot. The proportion of foreign matter such as wood particles and branches influences the rate of decomposition. This is about nine to ten months, with substrates that have been screened out being converted more quickly.
Beds and flower borders
For bark mulch on the flower bed or smaller areas, a medium grain size is recommended. This varies between ten and 40 millimeters. The mulch layer lasts up to 15 months and is suitable for planted outdoor areas and rock gardens. Here, however, you should pay attention to the needs of the plants and, if necessary, use a mineral mulch material. Few drought-loving species feel comfortable in a layer of bark mulch.
garden paths
If you want to cover large areas, the area between shrubs or garden paths with bark mulch, you need a coarse-grained bark material with a thickness of 20 to 60 millimeters. Such a bark mulch bed is reminiscent of the natural soil in the forest and exudes a similar smell. It is important that you replace the material about every one to two years in order to maintain a safe and comfortable walking experience.
tips
You should value quality, because high-quality substrates have been sieved before bottling. In cheap offers, the proportion of fine materials is very high, which promotes waterlogging and restricts ventilation. These mulch materials decompose at a faster rate.
play areas
The coarsest grain sizes of 60 to 12 millimeters make sense under swings and climbing frames. Such pieces of bark are characterized by soft and springy properties. The particles do not settle in the shoe profiles and the rotting process progresses slowly. This means that an exchange of material is necessary after 18 months at the earliest and three years at the latest.