Choosing And Maintaining Bark Mulch

Difference Between Mulch And Compost

The difference between mulch and compost is only in the degree of decomposition. Mulch contains materials that are not yet broken down completely. Compost is the final stage of decomposition and is homogenous and looks like a rich brown soil.


Mulch can be spread as compost on soil surface. More commonly compost is added after digging into garden soil so as to improve the soil by adding humus and attract worms. This is especially useful to loosen heavy clay soils and enhance water holding capacity of sandy soils.

Making Bark Mulch

Almost any kind of wood chips can be used as bark mulch. Bark mulch is bark shredded off trees and grinded into finer size pieces. Bark mulch is usually screened for easy working with in landscape. Bark mulch decomposes and will change color.

Mulching In Garden

Most gardeners want mulch. Mulch is simply added on top of the garden bed in a thick layer of 10 to 30 cms thick. Mulching thickly on the soil surface will protect the surface roots of the plants by:

• Reducing water evaporation by up to 80% thus retaining moisture in soil
• Helping to maintain a constant soil temperature which reduces water usage
• Iinsulating the soil, keeping roots cool in summer and warm in winter
• Adding nutrients to soil thus attracting them as it provides food for worms
• Discouraging weed growth