Can bark mulch stop evaporation loss

One of the lesser-known advantages of bark mulch is its ability to slow down the rate of evaporation from the soil surface. In the heat of summer, moisture can be lost rapidly, leaving plants under pressure and beds drying out more quickly than expected. A layer of bark mulch acts as a shield, reducing direct exposure of the soil to sun and wind.

By covering bare ground, the mulch keeps the upper layers of soil cooler and traps the moisture held beneath. This means that water from rainfall or irrigation remains available for longer, seeping gradually into the root zone rather than being lost to the air. The effect is particularly noticeable in lighter soils, where evaporation is usually most pronounced.

The benefits extend beyond moisture retention. Because bark mulch prevents the topsoil from drying into a hard crust, it allows water to penetrate more easily during the next shower, instead of running off the surface. Over time, this helps to maintain more consistent growing conditions, reducing stress on plants and improving overall resilience.

For gardeners looking to manage water more efficiently, bark products from AHS LTD provide a simple and natural way to limit evaporation while also improving the look of beds and borders.