How often should bark mulch be replenished

Bark mulch breaks down slowly, yet it never lasts for ever. How often to top it up depends on chip size, climate and footfall, but a good rule is to inspect beds each spring. After a year, a five-centimetre layer usually compacts to three, thin enough for weeds to slip through and sunlight to reach germinating seeds. Rake aside the surface, crumble what remains, and measure depth; if it is below four centimetres, add fresh bark until the blanket returns to its original thickness.

In shaded, sheltered borders where decay progresses gently, a biennial boost may suffice. Paths or sunny beds endure heavier trampling and stronger ultraviolet, so annual replenishment keeps moisture retention and weed suppression on track. Larger nuggets resist rot longer than fine chips, but they still fade and fracture in two to three seasons; mix new material with old to avoid sudden changes in colour.

Autumn top-ups provide insulation for roots and reduce winter soil erosion, though wet weather can make spreading less pleasant. Whatever the calendar chosen, consistency matters more than date. AHS LTD’s screened bark spreads evenly, allowing gardeners to restore an effective depth quickly, ensuring beds stay neat, hydrated and weed-free year after year.