Which bark should you choose?
Are you thinking of doing up your centre’s gardens? Or maybe you need some soft fall bark for a playground? It’s important to know which mulch or bark to invest in. Different bark or mulch has different purposes.
First, you have to decide what you are doing to the garden or exterior of your centre, from there Mathiou Services can help find the perfect one for you.
For visual purposes:
Cedar chip mulch has a great natural vibrant colour that is well suited as a decorative mulch, as well as other coloured mulch which can be colour coordinated with plants and garden landscapes.
For Playgrounds and equipment:
The type of bark you need for a playground is commonly referred to as “playground mulch” or “playground wood chips.” These wood chips provide a cushioned surface that helps absorb impact and reduce the risk of injuries in case of falls. They are typically made from chipped or shredded wood, such as cedar, cypress, pine, or other hardwoods.
When choosing playground bark, consider the following factors:
- Safety: The bark should be certified for playground use and meet safety standards, such as ASTM F1292, which specifies critical fall height requirements.
- Particle Size: The wood chips should be of an appropriate size to create a soft and impact-absorbing surface. Generally, chips should be between 1-3 inches in size.
- Material: Choose a type of wood that is durable, rot-resistant, and able to withstand foot traffic and weather conditions. Cedar, cypress, and hardwoods are commonly used.
- Depth: The recommended depth of playground bark is typically around 9-12 inches to provide adequate cushioning.
- Maintenance: Consider the maintenance requirements of the bark material. Some types may break down faster than others, requiring more frequent replenishment.
- Accessibility: Ensure that the bark material is accessible to all children, including those with disabilities. It should allow for easy movement of mobility devices.
- Local Regulations: Check with local regulations and guidelines for playground safety and surfacing requirements in your area.
Before purchasing and installing playground bark, it’s a good idea to consult with playground professionals or safety experts to ensure that you’re choosing the right type and amount of bark for your specific playground’s needs.
For plants:
Different types of plants have varying preferences when it comes to the type of bark or mulch they need. The choice of bark or mulch can influence factors such as moisture retention, temperature regulation, weed suppression, and overall plant health. Here are some common types of mulch or bark and the types of plants they are suitable for:
- Organic Mulch (Wood Bark, Wood Chips): This type of mulch decomposes over time, enriching the soil with nutrients. It’s suitable for a wide range of plants, including shrubs, trees, flowers, and vegetables. However, some plants, like acid-loving plants (e.g., azaleas, rhododendrons) and woodland plants, benefit more from this type of mulch due to its gradual decomposition.
- Pine Bark Mulch: Pine bark mulch is acidic and works well for plants that prefer slightly acidic soil, such as blueberries, azaleas, and camellias. It also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Cocoa Shell Mulch: Cocoa shell mulch is derived from cocoa bean shells and provides a rich, dark appearance to the garden. It’s suitable for ornamental plants and flowers, but it should be used with caution around pets, as cocoa shells can be toxic to animals.
- Straw Mulch: Straw mulch is commonly used in vegetable gardens to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the soil. It’s especially beneficial for crops like strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers.
- Rock or Gravel Mulch: This type of mulch doesn’t break down and can be useful for xeriscaping or drought-tolerant plants. It’s often used in arid climates to conserve water.
- Rubber Mulch: Made from recycled rubber, rubber mulch is often used in landscaping and playgrounds. It’s not suitable for all plants and may not provide the same soil enrichment benefits as organic mulches.
- Leaf Mulch: Shredded leaves make an excellent mulch that adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down. It’s suitable for many plants, particularly in woodland or naturalistic settings.
When choosing mulch for your plants, consider factors such as the plant’s specific needs, the climate in your area, and your soil type. It’s important to avoid piling mulch directly against the plant stems, as this can lead to moisture retention and potential disease issues. Mulch should be applied in a layer a few inches deep, leaving a small gap around the plant base.
There are plenty of options out there and with the help of Mathiou Services we can help find the right one for you. Contact us on 1300 363 423 for more information on all things gardening.
