This is how chopped bark work
Bark mulch has positive effects, provided the layer thickness is right. The thinner you apply the substrate, the lower the protective effects. If you spread too much material in the bed, there is a risk of excessive mold growth. The growth of mold is normal, but it can be limited with the right approach.
also read
- Use bark mulch and choose the right grain size
- Floor care with bark mulch - useful for cherry laurel?
- Bark mulch in the hydrangea bed
Advantages of a mulch cover:
- reduces evaporation as the sun's rays do not hit the ground directly
- protects the substrate from intense rainfalls, which favor silting
- prevents soil particles from being carried away by violent winds
- inhibits the development of flying seeds
Weed suppression
Weed seeds that spread with the wind germinate when they come into contact with the ground and under optimal microclimatic conditions. A sufficiently thick mulch cover prevents the fine seeds from reaching the ground. However, some seeds manage to sprout and their roots to penetrate to the substrate. The plants do not have a firm hold in the chopped layer and can be plucked out without any effort. That way, it makes it easier for you
Mulching the Gardening.The right layer thickness
A layer of mulch can be between four and ten centimeters thick. If you adhere to values of five to seven centimeters, you ensure optimal protection against unwanted weeds. However, the layer thickness differs depending on the location and the selected plants.
Paths and seats
Coarse pieces of pine bark are ideal for fastening usable areas. This has the advantage that the surface dries off quickly and can be walked on again quickly after rainy days. The soft properties create a pleasant feeling when walking with or without shoes. Bark mulch has a decorative effect in this area of application and creates varied accents. A layer of mulch ten centimeters thick is recommended on paths and under seating areas.
playgrounds
The resilient effect of coarse-grained mulch substrates also proves to be positive on play areas. Under climbing frames and swings, the loose material has a fall-absorbing effect and therefore ensures more safety. The quick-drying properties ensure non-slip play, with the large pieces of bark not getting stuck in the sole profiles. In order to take advantage of the positive effects as much as possible, you should adhere to a layer thickness of ten centimeters.
Garden decoration
A thin layer of bark mulch under herbaceous borders or rose hedges makes the area appear tidier and more structured. The floor of beds with grasses, shrubs and ground cover is usually covered with four to five centimeters of bark chaff. With this layer thickness, complete suppression of weeds is not guaranteed, but their growth is reduced by about 80 percent compared to open soils. For tree grates, hedges and bushes, the recommended layer height is five to eight centimeters.
