How often should bark mulch be topped up

Bark mulch is not a one-off addition to the garden. As it weathers, it slowly breaks down and integrates with the soil, which is part of its natural cycle. This means it will gradually thin out, lose its fresh appearance and become less effective at suppressing weeds and retaining moisture. For that reason, topping it up is an important part of maintaining its benefits.

On average, bark mulch should be refreshed once a year. Many gardeners choose spring, as it sets the beds up nicely for the growing season, while others prefer autumn, giving the soil added protection through winter. The timing is flexible, but the key is to check the depth of the layer. Ideally, it should sit at around five to seven centimetres. If it drops below this, light and air can reach weed seeds, and moisture control is reduced.

The rate at which mulch decomposes depends on weather, the type of bark used and how much footfall or disturbance the area gets. AHS LTD provides quality bark mulches that can last well, but even so, an annual top-up helps keep everything looking neat while ensuring the mulch continues to do its job effectively.