Applying Redwood Bark Chips as Mulch

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EBGB Los Altos, CA Oct 26, 2015

We planted some drought tolerant plants and trees. We are doing some mulching with ¾ inch redwood bark chips. We are planning to spread it about 2 inches deep. Is it OK to put the redwood bark chips up against the crowns of plants and up against tree trunks? I think I remember hearing that this could harm the plants but I don’t remember why. What can you tell me about how redwood bark chips should be applied as a mulch?

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DaisyPlantLady Reno, NV(Zone 6b) Oct 26, 2015

This is what I can think of. Others may add more:

- No more than 2 inches deep as more will keep the moisture out, not in.
- The chips will break down over the course of the year so more will be needed.
- Don't put chips up to the base of plants or tree trunks. It will hold moisture against the plant crown or tree trunk causing rot and death of your plants/trees
- Fresh redwood chips may be toxic to plants. Let them age first or buy chips that look old.
- If you live in wind prone areas (as I do), you may be buying redwood chips for your neighbors

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missingrosie Hillsborough, NC(Zone 7b) Oct 26, 2015

I find I am always agreeing Daisy.
Daisy, my granddaughter who is 3 won't train..I need help. I am not fooling.

About the chips..when I was young and fresh...I planted a beautiful ornamental cherry....
Beautiful. Brought those hardwood chips up to the trunk (maybe it was a hardwood shredded mulch ) regardless, the tree began to fail..I read everything, called extention agents, and sprayed and pruned and prayed....after it was too late when we were removing that tree .....I saw that slugs or some kind of slimy creatures were destroying the tree ...the mulch up against the trunk was providing housing for those cherry tree killing critters.

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sallyg Anne Arundel,, MD(Zone 7b) Oct 30, 2015

agreed with DPL, except I think redwood will last longer than el cheapo hardwood mulch. I don't think 3/4 inch bark will be all gone in a year. Hopefully, you can just rough it (check to see it still can let water drain through) and top it with fresh.

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