Bark mulch is often used as a protection and source of nutrients for numerous plants. The amount per m², which can be easily determined, is important when using it.
In a nutshell
- The amount of bark mulch depends on the cultivated plants and the recommended layer thickness
- The layer thickness ranges from 4 cm to 10 cm
- To determine the amount of mulch, the layer thickness is multiplied by several factors
- The required liters per m² are determined as a result
Determine layer thickness
The layer thickness is an important value when calculating the amount of bark mulch per m². It is recommended to use ten liters of bark mulch for every inch of mulch layer. As a result, the ground is well covered and the bark chips are not immediately removed again. Because of this, you need to determine the layer thickness dictated by your plants. The mulch layer can be four to ten centimeters thick, but the scope can be narrowed down further:
- ideal thickness: 5 - 8 cm
- Ground cover: 4 - 5 cm
- Perennials: 4 - 5 cm
- Shrubs: 5 - 8 cm
- Grasses: 4 - 6 cm
- Paths or play areas: 10 cm
If it is a mixed bed, the layer thickness should be at least five centimeters.
Tip: If you decide to use mulch on paths, you should rely on a layer thickness of four inches. Weather conditions and constant use wear away lower layers of mulch too quickly, which requires constant refilling.
Calculation: Amount per m²
Once you have determined the layer thickness for your project, you can calculate the amount of bark mulch. In addition to the layer thickness, you also need the following values for the calculation:
- area in square meters
- 10 liters per centimeter of mulch
The general formula is based on the values mentioned as follows:
Area in square meters x layer thickness in centimeters x 10 liters per centimeter of mulch = amount of bark mulch in liters
You don't have to convert anything at this point. Only the already determined values are inserted. A layer thickness of eight centimeters is assumed for the following example: 1 x 8 x 10 = 80L
In this case you would need 80 liters of bark mulch for one square meter. You can use the formula shown to enter the individual values of your project and quickly calculate the required amount of bark mulch.
Notice: The calculated result can be converted from liters to tons or cubic meters using online calculators for building materials. This makes it easier to order the amount of bark mulch, regardless of whether you buy it from a hardware store or a building materials store.
frequently asked Questions
How can bark mulch be saved?If you don't have enough mulch or capital available, a garden fleece can be used. Place the fleece between the mulch and the soil to prevent the growth of weeds that grow there. In this way, the layer thickness can be reduced to four centimeters without causing problems. The garden fleece acts as a protective layer.
What alternatives are there to classic mulch?The cost of bark mulch is increasing due to the loss of large areas of forest, which is no longer affordable for many. Instead, rely on a mulch layer of clean fall leaves, grass clippings or hedge clippings. It is also possible to use crushed Chinese reed (Miscanthus sinensis). For a long-lasting alternative, consider using ground covers such as ivy (Hedera helix), cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri) or cranesbill (Geranium).
How is the grit selected?After determining the required quantity, the granulation has a significant effect on the acquisition costs. It depends on the intended use. For a bed, grain sizes between 16 and 40 millimeters should be used, while up to 80 millimeters are recommended for large areas and paths.