Blog Posts
- We've Spruced Things Up
- FAQ: What does bark do when used as a mulch?
- Bark Coverage Chart
- FAQ: What is an express blower?
- Mulching Trees and Shrubs
- How did we do since the launch of our new site?
- FAQ: What is safety surfacing?
- Overseeding In Autumn
- What Our Customers Say
- Why Winter Mulching is important
- Christmas Delivery Dates
- Play Chip: Before and After
- Everything you need to know about Mulching
- How Scotbark are responding to Covid-19
- Doing up the garden - how to keep busy during lockdown
- Landscaping in Winter
- Planting Bulbs for Spring? Here’s Why You Should Mulch Now
- Preparing Your Garden for Winter: Smart Bark & Mulch Moves
- All About Scotbark – Your Questions Answered
- 5 Creative Uses for Scotbark Bark and Woodchip Products You Haven’t Tried
All About Scotbark – Your Questions Answered
Choosing the right bark, woodchip or landscaping material can transform a garden or commercial space.
But it’s not always clear which product does what or how much you’ll need.
At Scotbark, we’re proud to supply high-quality, sustainably sourced bark and woodchip products across Scotland and the wider UK.
To help you get the most from your project, we’ve put together this handy guide covering everything from product types to delivery, installation and environmental benefits.
What products does Scotbark offer?
Scotbark supplies a wide range of natural, sustainable landscaping materials, including:
- Decorative Bark – Ideal for borders, pathways and beds.
- Play Bark and Play Chip – Safety-tested for playgrounds and outdoor activity areas.
- Ornamental and Premium Bark – High-quality finishes for show gardens and commercial projects.
- Woodchip – Useful for large areas, pathways and cost-effective ground cover.
- Composts and Soil Improvers – To enrich garden soil and improve structure.
- Mulches – For moisture retention, weed suppression and improved soil health.
Each product undergoes strict quality control to ensure consistency, durability and sustainability.
Where does Scotbark source its products?
All Scotbark products are sourced from managed forests and timber operations within the UK. The company works closely with forestry partners who follow responsible, sustainable woodland management practices. This ensures:
- Reduced environmental impact
- Protection of biodiversity
- Long-term supply of high-quality raw material
Scotbark prioritises local and sustainable sourcing wherever possible to keep carbon footprints low.
What is the difference between bark and woodchip?
Although both are natural materials, they serve different purposes:
Bark is the outer layer of trees. It is decorative, long-lasting and ideal for borders, beds, planters and landscaped spaces.
Woodchip is made from chipped branches and wood. It is more robust and cost-effective, making it ideal for pathways, large public spaces, and mulching over bigger surface areas.
If you’re unsure which is best for your project, Scotbark’s team is always happy to advise.
Is Play Bark or Play Chip safe?
Scotbark Play Bark and Play Chip are both specifically processed to meet playground safety standards. Both are screened, clean, and tested for impact absorption, making them suitable for:
- Schools
- Public playgrounds
- Nurseries
- Adventure parks
- Domestic garden play areas
They provide a natural, attractive alternative to rubber surfacing while still offering excellent cushioning.
How much bark or woodchip will I need?
As a general rule of thumb:
- Decorative bark – 50–75 mm depth
- Play bark – 150–300 mm depth depending on fall height requirements
- Woodchip for paths – 50–100 mm depth
To calculate the exact quantity, measure the length × width × desired depth of your area. Scotbark also provides guidance for volume estimations and can advise on bulk orders or repeat deliveries.
Does Scotbark offer bulk and nationwide delivery?
Yes. Scotbark offers:
- Loose loads for large projects
- Bulk bags for convenient handling
- Palletised delivery where needed
- Nationwide distribution across the UK
Delivery times vary depending on location and order size, but the team aims for quick, efficient scheduling with excellent communication throughout.
How should I install bark or woodchip?
Installation is straightforward:
- Prepare the ground – Remove weeds and debris.
- Use a weed membrane if required for long-term suppression.
- Spread evenly to the recommended depth.
- Replenish annually – Bark naturally decomposes and enriches the soil.
Scotbark products are low-maintenance and improve the appearance and health of outdoor spaces with minimal effort.
Is bark environmentally friendly?
Yes – bark is one of the most eco-friendly landscaping materials available. It is:
- A natural by-product of sustainable timber production
- Biodegradable, improving soil health over time
- Helpful in reducing water usage thanks to moisture retention
- A deterrent to weeds, reducing the need for chemical herbicides
Using bark and woodchip supports a healthy garden ecosystem while maintaining a natural look.
Can Scotbark products be used for commercial projects?
Absolutely. Scotbark regularly supplies:
- Local authorities
- Schools and nurseries
- Landscaping contractors
- Housing developers
- Retail and hospitality sites
- Large estates and country parks
Custom advice and high-volume deliveries are available for commercial clients.
Whether you’re refreshing a small garden bed or landscaping a large commercial site, Scotbark provides high-quality, sustainable materials designed to perform beautifully and last. With a wide range of products, expert advice, and nationwide delivery, Scotbark makes it easy to bring any outdoor space to life.
If you have more questions - or if you’d like a personalised recommendation - get in touch with the Scotbark team.
