Got Bark Mulch? Here’s 6 Ways to Use it Right in Your Yard

If you have a yard, whether you’re a pro landscaper or just trying to keep your own place looking decent, you know it takes some effort. Fighting weeds, keeping the ground moist, just making it look tidy… it’s work!

One thing that can really help is bark mulch. At Bayshore Materials we’ve helped tons of people with bark mulch delivery near me in Vallejo, that’s why we put together this easy list of tips to help you beautify your garden and make it more manageable.

First off…

What’s Bark Mulch and What’s It Do?

Pretty simple, really. It’s just shredded or chipped up bark from trees. You can get it in different sizes, like fine little bits or bigger chunks, and different natural colors to match your yard.

So, why bother using it? Good question. Here’s the main reasons:

Holds Moisture In

Acts like a blanket on the soil, keeping water from just evaporating away. Means you don’t have to water as often. Big help, especially when it’s dry.

Good for the Soil

As the bark breaks down over time (which it’s supposed to do), it adds good organic stuff back into your dirt. Plants like that.

Keeps Temps Steady

Protects plant roots from getting scorched in the summer heat or frozen solid in the winter. Kind of like insulation for the ground.

Tip #1: Pick the Right Kind of Bark Mulch

Not all bark mulch is the same. Different types work better for different spots. Here’s a rough guide to what you might find:

• Fine: Good for around smaller plants, flower beds. Looks delicate.
• Medium: Your all-around go-to for most landscaping beds, maybe even walkways.
• Coarse or large chunks: Best if you need it to last a long time or stay put, like around big trees or on hillsides.

Tip #2: Get the Spot Ready Before You Mulch

Don’t just dump the mulch on bare dirt and hope for the best. Do a little prep work first. It helps a lot.

• Clean it up: Pull out all the weeds, grass, rocks, old leaves. Get down to the soil.
• Water first: Give the ground a good soak before you put the mulch down. Traps that moisture right from the start.
• Edge it (if you can): Putting in some edging, like landscaping pavers, helps keep the mulch in the bed and the grass out. Plus, it looks neater.

Tip #3: Don’t Go Too Thick or Too Thin

How deep should the mulch be? It kind of depends.

General beds, around flowers: Aim for about 2 to 3 inches deep.

Places with lots of weeds or where people might walk: Maybe go a bit deeper, 3 to 4 inches.

Important bit: Don’t pile mulch right up against the base of your plants or tree trunks. Leave a little space, an inch or so, all around. This stops moisture from sitting there and causing rot or attracting bugs.

Tip #4: Top It Up Every Year or So

Bark mulch breaks down over time. That’s natural, it’s feeding your soil. But it means your layer gets thinner.

Plan on adding a one inch fresh layer about once a year. This keeps it looking good and doing its job protecting the soil.

Spring is usually the best time, before everything really takes off growing.

Tip #5: Mulch Works with Watering & Feeding, Not Against It!

Mulch helps you water less, which is great.

Just make sure you are watering enough to get down through the mulch to the roots. But also, don’t overdo it, especially when it’s cool out, because the mulch holds that moisture.

And remember, while mulch can help you ensure a healthy garden, your plants probably still need regular fertilizer depending on what they are. Mulch helps, but it isn’t magic plant food on its own.

Tip #6: Use Mulch in Other Places Too

Think beyond just flower beds! Bark mulch is handy for:

• Making simple paths through the garden.
• Filling in the gaps between stepping stones.
• Putting around a bird bath, statue, or fountain to make it pop.
• Spreading under a garden bench or seating area.

It looks good, feels nice underfoot, and cuts down on mowing or weeding needs.

Ready to Get Started?

Need some good quality bark mulch? Bayshore Materials has got you covered, right here in Vallejo! We’ve got the mulch and the know-how. Don’t kill your back hauling bags, ask about our bark mulch delivery near me in Vallejo service. We’ll bring the good stuff straight to your house or job site.

Swing by Bayshore Materials to see what we offer, contact us to schedule your delivery, or give us a call today at 707-644-0859 and speak with one of our experts!