How do I deal with mould in bark mulch

Mould appearing on bark mulch can look alarming at first glance, often surfacing as white threads, powdery patches or even curious jelly-like forms. In truth, most of these fungi are harmless and part of the natural cycle of decomposition. As bark breaks down, it provides food for microbial life, which in turn improves soil health and fertility over time.

If the mould is purely cosmetic, you can often leave it alone and let the weather take care of it. Sunlight and fresh air usually reduce fungal growth quickly. A light raking can also disturb the surface and encourage airflow, which dries the mulch and makes conditions less favourable for mould to thrive. It is worth remembering that mould rarely poses a danger to established plants, as it tends to feed on the mulch itself rather than the roots beneath.

In cases where the mulch appears overly damp or compacted, turning it with a fork helps restore balance. Excess watering should be avoided, as consistently soggy mulch invites more fungal activity. Using a well-graded product from AHS LTD can lessen the issue, since quality bark tends to maintain better structure and aeration. With simple management, mould in bark mulch becomes a passing inconvenience rather than a serious problem.