If you’re serious about improving your garden’s health, appearance, and efficiency, wood chip mulch is a great place to start. It’s cost-effective, natural, and delivers long-term results for both soil and plants.
Here are the top 5 benefits of using wood chips in your garden—and why more Aussie gardeners are choosing them over other types of mulch.
1. Moisture Retention: Less Watering Required
One of the biggest advantages of wood chip mulch is its ability to hold moisture in the soil. Once spread over garden beds, the mulch acts like a protective blanket. It slows down evaporation, keeping your soil cooler and wetter for longer, even during hot summer days.
This means less watering and more consistent soil moisture, which is vital for plant roots. It’s also a great way to reduce water bills and support drought-friendly gardening.
Why it matters: Plants thrive with steady moisture. Wood chips help keep the water where it belongs—at the root zone.
2. Soil Enrichment as It Breaks Down
Unlike synthetic mulches, wood chips break down over time and feed the soil as they decompose. As the chips slowly rot, they encourage beneficial microorganisms, fungi, and worms—all of which improve soil structure and fertility.
This natural cycle turns your mulch into compost over time, which boosts your garden’s long-term health.
Tip: Hardwood chips break down slower, while softwoods like pine decompose faster. Choose based on how often you want to refresh your mulch.
3. Weed Suppression Without Chemicals
Tired of weeds taking over your garden beds? A layer of wood chip mulch smothers weed seeds and blocks sunlight from reaching them. This dramatically reduces weed growth and makes maintenance easier.
You’ll spend less time pulling weeds and more time enjoying your garden.
How to do it right: Apply mulch 7–10 cm thick and leave a gap around plant stems to avoid rot.
4. Protects Against Soil Erosion
Heavy rain and wind can wash away topsoil, especially in bare garden beds or on slopes. Wood chip mulch acts as a buffer, softening the impact of rain and anchoring the soil underneath.
This is especially useful for gardens with uneven ground or those in exposed areas. It keeps your soil in place and helps your garden retain its shape.
Bonus: It also reduces mud splatter and keeps your plants cleaner during storms.
5. Improves Garden Appearance Instantly
On top of all the practical benefits, wood chip mulch also makes your garden look clean, neat, and professional. It gives a uniform finish to garden beds and helps define pathways and borders.
You can choose between natural, aged, or coloured wood chips to match your garden’s style.
Low effort, high impact: A fresh layer of mulch can instantly boost curb appeal and make your plants stand out.
Looking to mulch your garden?
Diggers Landscape Supplies stocks quality wood chips and garden mulch options perfect for local conditions. Whether you need bulk delivery or a few bags, we’ve got you covered.
Visit us today or give us a call—we’re happy to help you pick the right mulch for your garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can wood chips attract termites?
They can, but it’s rare in garden beds away from structures. Avoid piling mulch against house foundations.
How often should I replace wood chip mulch?
Every 1–2 years. Softer chips decompose faster and may need refreshing more often.
Why use wood chips instead of other mulch?
They break down slowly, provide long-term soil benefits, and offer better weed suppression than lighter mulches like straw.
Is wood chip mulch good for all plants?
Yes, most plants benefit from wood chip mulch, especially trees, shrubs, and garden beds. Just avoid piling it too close to stems or trunks.
What are the benefits of wood chips in the garden?
Wood chips retain moisture, enrich the soil, stop weeds, prevent erosion, and make your garden look tidy.
