If bark mulch is used correctly, the substrate can optimally develop its positive effects. Hobby gardeners often make mistakes when spreading and do not pay attention to the recommended height specifications. Different usable areas require different amounts of mulching material.
How thick should bark mulch be?
The optimal layer thickness for bark mulch varies depending on the location: 4-5 cm for beds and garden decorations, 5-8 cm for tree discs, hedges and bushes, 10 cm for paths, seats and playgrounds. The thickness influences weed suppression and mold protection.
This is how shredded bark works
Bark mulch has positive effects, provided the layer thickness is correct. 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 formation. Although the growth of mold is normal, it can be kept in check with the right approach.
Benefits of a mulch cover:
- reduces evaporation because the sun's rays do not hit the ground directly
- protects the substrate from intense rainfall, which promotes siltation
- prevents the removal of soil particles by strong winds
- inhibits the development of flying seeds
Weed suppression
Weed seeds that spread with the wind germinate when in contact with the ground and in optimal microclimatic conditions. A sufficiently thick layer of mulch prevents the fine seeds from reaching the ground. Some seeds still manage to sprout and reach the substrate with their roots. The plants do not have a firm hold in the chopped layer and can be plucked out without any effort. In this way, mulching makes your gardening easier.
The right layer thickness
A layer of mulch can be between four and ten centimeters thick. If you maintain values of five to seven centimeters, you will ensure optimal protection against unwanted weeds. However, the layer thickness differs depending on the location and the plants chosen.
Paths and seats
Rough pieces of pine bark are ideal for attaching usable surfaces. This offers the advantage that the surface dries quickly and can be walked on again quickly after rainy days. The soft properties create a pleasant feeling when walking with or without shoes. In this area of application, bark mulch has a decorative effect and creates varied accents. A layer of mulch ten centimeters thick is recommended on paths and under seating areas.
Playgrounds
The springy effect of coarse-grained mulch substrates also proves to be positive on playing surfaces. The loose material has a fall-absorbing effect under climbing frames and swings and therefore ensures greater safety. The quick-drying properties ensure non-slip play, while the large pieces of bark do not get stuck in the sole profiles. To make the most of the positive effects, you should maintain a layer thickness of ten centimeters.
Garden decoration
A thin layer of bark mulch under herbaceous borders or rose hedges makes the environment appear tidier and more structured. The bottom of beds with grasses, perennials and ground cover plants is usually covered with four to five centimeters of chopped bark. This layer thickness does not guarantee complete suppression of weeds, but their growth is reduced by around 80 percent compared to open ground. For tree slices, hedges and bushes, the recommended layer height is five to eight centimeters.
