Mulch vs Bark: Understanding the Key Differences Between These Organic Materials

Mulch and bark are both organic materials used frequently in landscaping, but they serve different purposes Knowing when to use mulch versus bark can optimize your garden’s health and appearance In this article, we’ll explore the distinct characteristics of mulch and bark, their benefits, appropriate uses, and how to choose between them.

Defining Mulch

Mulch is a broad term referring to any material applied to the soil surface for protective ground cover. It helps retain moisture, insulate plant roots prevent weeds, and improve the soil over time as it breaks down.

Organic mulches include:

• Wood chips or shreds – from hardwood, softwood, or recycled wood
• Pine needles and bark pieces
• Chopped leaves
• Straw
• Compost
• Grass clippings

Inorganic mulches include stone, gravel, plastic sheeting, recycled rubber, and other synthetic materials. They don’t improve soil but serve other purposes like weed prevention.

Organic mulches are preferred since they enrich the soil as they decompose. Mulch made from tree trimmings sold by landscapers and gardening stores typically comes shredded or chipped. You can also make DIY mulch by shredding leaves with a lawn mower.

Defining Bark

Bark refers specifically to shredded pieces of tree bark, which is the outermost protective layer of woody plants. It gets separated from logs during wood processing. Bark mulch is popular for landscaping due to its decorative nature and slow decomposition compared to other organic mulches.

It often features attractive colors and textures depending on the tree species. For example, cedar bark has a reddish hue and fibrous strands while pine bark tends to be brown and chunky. Bark particle sizes range from fine shreds to large nuggets.

Key Differences Between Mulch and Bark

While both mulch and bark serve as ground cover, there are some notable differences:

• Appearance – Mulch has a mixed, natural look depending on the material while bark has a more uniform appearance.

• Source – Mulch derives from various plant-based materials. Bark comes only from tree bark.

• Decomposition – Mulch breaks down more quickly. Bark is slower to degrade.

• Soil Improvement – Mulch enhances soil fertility and structure as it decomposes. Bark contributes less organic matter over time.

• Weed Suppression – Mulch initially suppresses weeds better with its finer particles. Bark lasts longer for extended weed prevention.

• Cost – Mulch is generally cheaper than bark since bark is a premium landscaping material requiring specialized processing.

• Wetness – Mulch retains more moisture. Bark promotes better drainage.

• Durability – Bark remains intact longer than mulch, especially under foot traffic.

• Application Depth – Apply 2-4 inches of mulch. Use 3-6 inches of bark.

• Reapplication Rate – Mulch usually needs yearly replacement. Bark may last 2-4 years.

Benefits of Using Mulch

Applying a layer of organic mulch delivers many advantages:

• Conserves soil moisture – reduces watering needs

• Minimizes weed growth – blocks light and acts as a physical barrier

• Insulates plant roots and soil – protects from extreme temperatures

• Reduces soil erosion and compaction

• Improves drainage in clay soils

• Allows air and water to permeate the soil

• Adds organic matter and nutrients as it decomposes over time

• Provides habitat for beneficial organisms like earthworms and beetles

Benefits of Using Bark Mulch

In addition to general mulch benefits, bark offers these advantages:

• Very effective at blocking weeds due to its slow decomposition

• Lasts longer than other organic mulches without needing replacement

• Promotes good drainage and aerates soil

• Comes in attractive colors and textures to enhance landscape

• Requires less frequent raking or maintenance compared to fine mulch

• Provides a neat, tidy appearance for a longer period of time

• Good choice for slopes and areas prone to erosion

• Effective in high foot traffic zones where mulch would degrade quicker

When to Use Mulch vs. Bark in Your Landscape

Use mulch when you want:

• To improve overall soil health and fertility

• A natural, organic look in garden beds

• To readily mix in or till into soil

• To maximize moisture retention

• Easy, economical application for large areas

Use bark when you want:

• A tidy, uniform appearance for decorative areas

• Long lasting weed suppression with minimal maintenance

• To reduce erosion on slopes and drainage issues

• An attractive contrasting hue and interesting texture

• Odor control – bark has a pleasant woodsy aroma

• To minimize reapplication for several years

• Ground cover resilient to foot traffic

Tips for Applying Mulch and Bark

Follow these best practices:

• Remove weeds before application

• For new plantings, wait until soil settles to apply mulch or bark

• Evenly distribute to a depth of 2-4 inches for mulch, 3-6 inches for bark

• Keep mulch a couple inches away from plant stems and trunks

• For trees, maintain a mulch-free area near the trunk to prevent moisture against bark

• Rake to refresh and redistribute mulch or bark as needed

• Replenish bark every 2-4 years and mulch yearly or as it decomposes

• Mulch with compost or leaf litter yearly underneath bark for added nutrition

Achieve an Ideal Landscape with Mulch and Bark

Both mulch and bark serve valuable roles in landscaping. Mulch excels at enhancing soil health while bark provides striking, low-maintenance ground cover. Many gardens leverage the advantages of both by using bark near foundations, borders, and ornamental plantings while mulching vegetable gardens, flower beds, and areas needing soil improvement.

With a basic grasp of the differences between mulch and bark, you can determine the best materials to accomplish your gardening goals. Aim for the right balance of mulch and bark in the appropriate areas to unlock the full benefits these organic products offer. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types and application depths until you achieve the ideal landscape features and health your yard deserves.