Mulch Installation

A depth of 2 to 4 inches of bark mulch is generally recommended for landscape beds, based on the recommendations of various horticulturists from leading universities.  Any less and it won't last very long, any more and it could prevent your plants from getting water and oxygen to their roots.

Bark mulch typically lasts for one to two years, depending on the climate, soil type, and other factors. It is generally recommended to replace the mulch every one to two years or as needed.

It is not necessary to remove old bark mulch before adding new mulch. However, it is recommended to rake or agitate the old mulch to loosen it up and mix it with the soil to promote it's decomposition.

Bark mulch is generally safe for pets and children, but it is recommended to keep them away from the mulched area until it is settled and dry. Some types of bark mulch may contain chemicals or dyes, so we often recommend the use of natural, untreated mulch if this is a concern.

Bark mulch can that is applied properly in a layer 2 to 4 inches thick can provide a really good barrier against weeds.  It can stop seeds from germinating by blocking their sunshine and access to water.  However, bark mulch will not prevent 100% of weeds from coming through and will eventually need to be replaced.

Bark mulch is best installed during the early spring where it has a chance to do the most good for your landscape beds by preventing weed growth early in the season.

Landscape cloth, also known as weed barrier or landscape fabric, is commonly used in gardens and landscaping projects to help suppress weed growth and provide a barrier between the soil and mulch. However, there are several disadvantages to using landscape cloth below bark mulch and we generally don't recommend it.

#1.  It Can Reduce Soil Quality: Landscape cloth can impede the natural flow of air, water, and nutrients into the soil. This can result in poorer soil quality and health, potentially limiting plant growth for the plants you actually do want to grow.

#2.  Limits The Breakdown Of Organic Matter: By blocking the contact between the mulch and the soil, landscape cloth can limit the breakdown of organic matter from the mulch into the soil. This reduces the benefits of applying mulch, such as improved soil structure and nutrient availability for plants.

#3.  Weeds And Grasses Can Still Grow: Over time, organic debris can accumulate on top of the landscape cloth, providing a suitable environment for weeds and grasses to grow. Additionally, some persistent weeds may still grow through the fabric.

#4.  Makes Planting More Difficult: Installing new plants or reconfiguring the layout of your garden can be more challenging when landscape cloth is present, as you will need to cut through the fabric to create space for new plants.

#5.  Durability Issues: Although some landscape fabrics are designed to be long-lasting, they can eventually degrade due to exposure to the elements, requiring replacement. In some cases, the fabric can tear, rendering it less effective as a weed barrier.

#6.  Environmental Concerns: The production and disposal of synthetic landscape cloth can have negative environmental impacts. Some fabrics are made from petroleum-based materials, which are not biodegradable and can contribute to plastic pollution.

#7.  Aesthetics: The edges of landscape cloth can sometimes become visible, detracting from the overall appearance of your garden or landscape.

While landscape cloth can be helpful in certain situations, it's important to consider these potential disadvantages before installing it under bark mulch.

Bark mulch can be used in vegetable gardens and around fruit trees, as it helps maintain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature.  If you plan on installing bark mulch in your vegetable gardens and around fruit trees it's best to choose a bark mulch that doesn't use any color dye or the dye is non-toxic.

Bark mulch is made from the outer layer of trees, wood chips are small pieces of wood, and shredded bark is longer strands of bark. Each type has different characteristics and may be more suitable for specific applications.