Bark mulch for the rose bed: the advantages and disadvantages
Bark mulch doesn't just look good. It is used to protect the soil from drying out and to inhibit weed growth. Bark mulch decomposes over time and provides an optimal habitat for microorganisms such as earthworms. It also ensures a slightly acidic soil, which roses are very fond of.
However, in addition to these two beneficial effects, it also has a secondary, undesirable effect: the Mulch layer prevents the supply of oxygen and thus inhibits the work of aerobic microbes, which the soil with nutrients supply. Instead, anaerobic bacteria now begin to decompose the soil. This creates substances that harm roses such as B. Ammonia.
also read
- Better not to mulch roses with bark mulch
- Cover the rose bed with gravel
- Create a rose bed
Bark mulch yes or no?
In general, you can use bark mulch for your rose beds, but it is advisable to only apply a thin layer. This then has more of an optical effect than a practical one.
The healthy alternative for rose beds: bark humus
Instead of bark mulch, you should pamper your rose bed with bark humus. This decomposes faster and thus ensures sufficient nutrients in the soil. Alternatively, you can spread compost around the roots of your roses.
Tips
If you provide your roses with nutrients but at the same time the beautiful optical effect of If you want to preserve bark mulch, combine compost or bark humus with a thin layer Bark mulch. It is also conceivable that you cover your rose bed with gravel. This looks pretty, lets oxygen into the soil, and also holds back some moisture.
