Wood Chip & Mulch

Wood chip is the material produced when branches and timber are passed through a wood chipper. Mulch describes a protective layer placed over the surface of the soil, and wood chip is one of the materials commonly used for this purpose.

Wood chip can also be used for garden paths, informal access routes and other landscaping projects. If you are unsure what you need, tell us how the material will be used and we can explain what is currently available.

Wood chip can be used around trees, shrubs and planted beds, as well as on garden paths and informal landscaped areas. When used as mulch, it creates a protective covering over the soil.

The right material and application depth will depend on where it is being used. A decorative garden border may have different requirements from a path, growing area or larger landscaping project, so it helps to discuss the intended use before ordering.

Wood chippings used as mulch can generally be applied in a layer around 8 to 12 centimetres deep. Existing weeds should be removed first, and the soil should ideally be moist before the wood chip is spread.

Leave a clear gap around tree trunks and plant stems rather than piling the material directly against them. Wood chip will settle and gradually break down, so the layer may need topping up over time.

Wood chip can help suppress weeds by reducing the amount of light reaching the soil, but it will not prevent every weed permanently. Established weeds should be removed before the mulch is applied.

Maintaining a suitable depth will make the covering more effective. Some weeds may still appear through gaps or germinate on top as the material breaks down, but they are often easier to manage than they would be on uncovered soil.

Wood chip used as a surface mulch breaks down gradually and can add organic matter to the soil over time. It can also help reduce moisture loss, moderate soil temperature and protect the surface from erosion and compaction.

Fresh wood chip is best left on top of the soil rather than dug directly into it. It should not be treated as a direct replacement for compost, fertiliser or another soil improver where plants need additional nutrients.

Yes, wood chip can be used around many trees, shrubs and garden plants when it is applied correctly. Spread it evenly across the soil while leaving a clear gap around trunks, stems and plant crowns.

Piling mulch against the base of a tree can hold moisture against the bark and create conditions in which decay or disease may develop. The aim is to cover the surrounding soil without burying the base of the plant.

Our wood chip is natural material produced through tree surgery and arboricultural work. It is not treated with added chemicals.

Because it comes from real tree work, the species, colour, texture and size of the material can vary. If you need wood chip for a particular garden, landscaping or commercial application, speak to us before ordering so we can discuss the material currently available.

The amount required depends on the area being covered, the intended depth and whether the wood chip is being used for mulch, paths or another landscaping purpose. Measure the approximate length and width of the area before contacting us, and let us know how you plan to use it.

Wood chip and mulch deliveries are available locally across Essex and Suffolk. Contact our team with your postcode, measurements and any access restrictions so we can confirm availability, quantity and delivery options.