Barkdust - Production and Types of Barkdust

Production and Types of Barkdust

Barkdust is commonly produced from several tree species. The Douglas fir and the Western hemlock are the most common sources of barkdust, with cedar bark also being used. Barkdust may be a byproduct of lumber production, of yard debris recycling processes, or it may be produced in its own right. Barkdust is typically categorized by the source plant, as well as by the coarseness of the resulting material. Fine barkdusts are used as mulch, with coarser forms being used for weed control, as a playground surface, or for decorative purposes.

According to voluntary guidelines published by the Mulch and Soil Council, a trade group of mulch and soil producers, a material with "bark" in the name should consist of "the corky exterior covering of trees, with a maximum wood content (interior xylem of 15%)". Products with greater than 15% wood content may be labelled as "wood mulch", but should not be called "bark", according to the group's guidelines.

Fresh fir bark is reddish-brown in color. The bark from cedar or hemlock is more tan in color, as the processes which produce these types of barkdust may leave a greater percentage of wood (as opposed to bark) in the resulting material. Shredded fir bark is known for lots of slivers, those who handle it with bare hands or walk on it with bare feet are likely to get splinters. Bark produced from hemlock or cedar is far less likely to produce splinters, and is commonly used as a covering for children's play areas.

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