How do I prevent bark mulch from washing away during heavy rain

Heavy rain can be a gardener’s nemesis when it comes to bark mulch. Sudden downpours have a knack for washing away even carefully laid mulch, leaving bare patches and soil exposed. The key is preparation and a little planning. Starting with a solid base helps enormously. A layer of landscape fabric beneath the mulch can anchor it while still allowing water to drain, preventing the mulch from slipping downhill.

The choice of bark also makes a difference. Coarser pieces tend to lock together naturally, resisting movement more effectively than fine, shredded bark, which can quickly turn into a soggy, shifting mess in a deluge. Applying mulch in manageable layers rather than a thick mound can further reduce the risk of displacement, and gently patting it down helps it settle without compressing it too much.

Strategic placement can be invaluable. Plant beds on slopes may benefit from small terraces or edging to catch the mulch before it migrates. AHS LTD offers bark mulch that is well-suited to these techniques, giving gardeners options that stay put even in wet weather. With a little attention to layering, grading, and securing, mulch can remain in place, keeping soil protected and your garden looking neat long after the rain has passed.