Quick answer: Wood chips work well as a surface mulch for paths, around raised beds, trees and ornamental beds. They suppress weeds, reduce evaporation and gradually break down. Keep them mainly on the surface rather than mixing large quantities into the soil.
Why I switched from bark mulch to wood chips
I first covered our former lawn with cardboard and bark mulch. It worked, but the bark decomposed faster than I wanted. Wood chips were coarser, lasted longer and looked better around our dark raised beds.
Where to use wood chips
- Garden paths
- Around raised beds
- Around established trees and shrubs
- On ornamental beds as surface mulch
Do wood chips rob nitrogen from the soil?
The concern is mainly relevant when fresh woody material is mixed into the soil, where decomposition can temporarily tie up nitrogen near the chips. Used as a surface mulch, wood chips are much less likely to cause that problem.
How to suppress weeds underneath
For a new path or bed, a layer of plain cardboard under the chips can smother existing grass and weeds. Wet the cardboard so it stays in place, overlap the edges and add a generous layer of chips on top.
Where to get wood chips cheaply
Arborists, tree surgeons, sawmills and local marketplaces can be good sources. We bought ours in bulk and collected it with a trailer. If you transport loose chips, cover and secure the load properly.