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Bark mulch is very popular in domestic gardens. However, the individual products differ greatly. Mulch made from larch bark has clear advantages and is suitable for a wide range of uses.
In a nutshell
- Larch bark is particularly durable due to its high tannin content
- A mulch layer made of larch protects the soil from drying out and extreme temperatures
- As a biologically safe fall protection, the material is convincing due to its physical properties and the fact that chemical treatments are not required
Why larch bark mulch?
Although tree bark mulch is generally good for many uses, some varieties have various disadvantages. The larch convinces with a number of properties which, in addition to the classic use of the wood, are also noticeable in the larch bark
The durability
Larch wood is considered to be particularly durable and weather-resistant. This advantage is used for many outdoor wooden constructions, such as terraces, children's playground equipment or pergolas. The same effect also makes larch bark appear particularly beneficial. Because the bark chopped into mulch tends to quickly decompose on many types of wood due to the large surface. Larch bark mulch, on the other hand, remains in its original form for a long time and only rots away little by little. All the desired effects are also retained over a long period of time.
Regulation of soil properties
Precisely because the bark of this tree is so durable, it is particularly well suited for maintaining an even texture in the soil covered with it. Sun, wind and weather are effectively kept away and the floor is only slightly stressed, especially with regard to these factors:
- moisture balance
- overheating in summer
- Excessive cooling in winter
Notice: Larch mulch also rots sooner or later. However, the quicker the material is converted to humus, the quicker the hoped-for protective effect is reversed, since humus in particular is particularly susceptible to the changes mentioned.
erosion protection
Bare soil has little resistance to precipitation and is washed away bit by bit - it erodes. Larch bark mulch absorbs the force of falling water drops and ensures that precipitation is evenly drained into the ground. In the event of heavy rainfall, the mulch stops the loosened soil components and significantly reduces the washing effect.
Notice: Of course, in extreme cases, the mulch is also washed away by heavy rain events. Check the layering on the soil occasionally and level the material with a garden rake if necessary.
improvement of soil biology
Due to the long-term protective effect on the underlying soil, larch bark promotes the development of a balanced and active soil biology. Because countless small and micro-organisms use the protection and the warm, humid climate in and under the mulch for their own development.
Natural weed killer
Larch bark mulch is not only particularly durable. In addition, the bark has several properties that make it appear predestined as a natural weed protection:
- High shielding of light and air to the underlying soil
- High tannin content - natural herbicide
- Promotion of soil biology - decomposition of weed seeds, spores etc.
Chemical-free fall protection
Sometimes bark mulch is also used as fall protection under play equipment on playgrounds. Unlike other products, larch mulch combines a high damping effect due to the soft material with high durability. Chemical treatments to increase durability are therefore not required. And also on completely artificial products, such as rubber etc. are therefore not necessary.
Perennial decoration
Occasionally, bark mulch is also used as ground cover in front gardens, plant beds, etc., in particular because of its decorative and at the same time natural look. With a distinct red tint, larch bark clearly stands out from other, less conspicuous types of mulch. And the high durability also plays into the cards of use, since the decorative effect is retained for the foreseeable future.
frequently asked Questions
How are cheaper mixed products with larch to be evaluated?Depending on the mixture, the positive properties can be retained at least to a certain extent. However, you also accept the disadvantages of other, inferior admixtures.
Are the tannins it contains dangerous for plants in the garden?Normally, typical garden plants get along well with the ingredients of the bark mulch. However, long-term use can slightly change the soil characteristics in the direction of a more acidic soil. In the case of very sensitive plants, you should check the soil pH value and take countermeasures if necessary.
Are there qualitative differences between bulk goods and sacks?There is basically no difference between the two types of mulch. Mold can only develop and spread if damp materials are stored in plastic bags for a long time, which they then carry into the garden via the mulch. Therefore, when buying, make sure that sack goods are not excessively wet and do not smell musty. Fresh larch bark mulch smells distinctly of wood.