Woodchip is a useful “by-product” of tree surgery where the leaves and branches are passed through a mechanical woodchipper. The resulting woodchip is usually a mixture of varying proportions of “brown” woody material and “green” leafy material depending on the type of tree and season.

Applying an organic mulch to the soil surface in a 2″ to 4″ deep layer can help keep the soil cool and retain moisture in the summer either by reducing evaporation by the sun or by drying winds. In winter, mulch can help reduce the effects of frost on bulbs and prevent the ground from freezing. Mulch allows rain to pass through to the soil and also helps to prevent damage to shallow roots by heavy rain or when watering with hosepipes. Mulch can be use to good effect on paths too where it is free draining and resists freezing. The actions of soil organisms and worms will gradually breakdown the woodchip and incorporate it into the soil thus creating a richer soil structure, the mulch can be topped up after a year or two with a fresh layer.