Bark mulch is an optimal substrate for covering beds. It protects the soil from drying out, so hobby gardeners have to water less often. Over time the material decomposes. However, there are cases in which the leftovers must be disposed of.
What is the best way to dispose of bark mulch?
Bark mulch can be disposed of in organic waste bins, leaf bags, compost systems or your own compost. The material must not contain any impurities. Alternatively, it is suitable for covering flower beds to improve moisture balance.
Disposal at collection points
The Waste Disposal Act stipulates that biodegradable materials should be recycled via composting plants. This also includes bark mulch, which is no longer used. The organic waste must be handed in unpackaged and must not contain any contamination such as glass, metal or plastic. If you have space in the brown organic waste bin, you can dispose of smaller quantities in this way.
leaf bag
Alternatively, many disposal centers offer leaf bags for sale in which you can dispose of the material. These will either be picked up or brought to the collection point yourself. In this case, some waste disposal companies refund part of the purchase fees. These vary depending on the region and provider. Find out about the costs involved from your local waste disposal company in advance.
Composting
Bark mulch can be used in your own compost, provided you prepare it correctly. As a base layer, the material ensures that the water from the green waste seeps into the ground more easily. This also prevents the formation of rot. You can mix the bark parts into the compost substrate at any time, but you should not add too large quantities. Create an interim storage area right next to the compost with finely chopped wood waste and mulching materials, which you mix with the kitchen waste again and again.
Use alternatively
If you have no way to dispose of your bark mulch, you should think about alternative uses. A three centimeter high layer improves the moisture balance in the flower bed and protects against excessive water loss. Within a year the material had almost completely rotted away. Numerous flowers feel at home in a bed mulched with bark:
- Bluebells, carnations and marigolds
- Autumn star, coneflower and autumn anemone
- Cinquefoil, blue cushion and common thrush
Tip
Fungi grow naturally on bark mulch when the weather is humid. In dry and hot summer months they disappear on their own. The annoying smell also subsides when the substrate dries. Loosen it up for better ventilation.