Compost and topsoil do different jobs. Topsoil is a general growing medium used to fill raised beds, level ground, or establish new planting areas. Compost is richer in nutrients and organic matter, and is typically mixed into existing soil or used on its own in containers and seed trays to give plants a nutrient boost. For most garden projects, using topsoil as a base and incorporating compost on top or mixed in gives the best results.
Soil, Compost and Bark for Healthier Gardens
MacBlair stocks a range of soil, compost, and bark products to help get gardens growing and borders looking their best. Whether the job is filling raised beds, feeding containers, or mulching around shrubs, having the right growing medium underneath makes all the difference. The range includes all-purpose compost made from 100% natural ingredients, giving plants a nutrient-rich start that supports strong root development from the off.
Bark and mulch are worth using even when the garden looks tidy. Applied across beds and borders, bark locks in moisture, keeps roots insulated through temperature swings, and cuts down on the number of weeds breaking through. It works well alongside weed control membrane for a longer-lasting, lower-maintenance finish. The two used together save a lot of time come summer.
Compost and bark serve different purposes, so it helps to know which to reach for. Compost goes into the soil to improve fertility and structure. Bark goes on top as a protective layer. Common uses across the range include:
- All-purpose compost for containers, seed sowing, and planting out
- Bark mulch for beds, borders, and around trees and shrubs
- Topsoil and growing soil for raised beds and new planting areas
These products sit naturally alongside other landscaping work. Once beds and borders are sorted, it's worth considering how the wider garden looks. MacBlair's decorative stones offer an alternative to bark for paths and feature areas, while the full landscaping and gardening range covers everything from lawn care products to garden sleepers for raised bed edging.
Soil Compost Bark FAQ's
A layer of around 50 to 75mm (2 to 3 inches) is generally recommended. Too thin and it won't suppress weeds effectively; too thick and it can reduce airflow to the soil. For finer bark products, 50mm is usually sufficient. Coarser bark nuggets may benefit from being laid slightly deeper. Always leave a gap of around 8 to 10cm between the bark and the base of any tree trunk or shrub stem to prevent rot.
Yes. An all-purpose compost is suitable for a wide range of plants including vegetables, flowers, and herbs. It works well in containers, grow bags, and raised beds. For best results, look for a compost that feeds plants for at least four to five weeks, as this reduces the need for additional fertiliser early in the growing season. After that, a regular liquid feed will keep plants producing well.
Bark mulch significantly reduces weed growth by blocking light from reaching the soil surface, which prevents many weed seeds from germinating. It won't stop all weeds, particularly established perennial weeds with deep roots, so it's worth clearing those before laying bark. For the best weed suppression, lay a weed control membrane underneath the bark first. This combination is especially effective in borders and around shrubs where you want a low-maintenance finish.
Bark breaks down slowly, so it doesn't need replacing frequently. In most gardens, topping up every two to three years is enough to maintain good coverage and weed suppression. You'll know it's time when the layer has thinned noticeably or soil is showing through. Coarser bark grades tend to last longer than finer composted bark, making them a practical choice for large border areas where you want to reduce ongoing maintenance.