EXPERT TIPS

According to the National Bark & Soil Producers Association, any mulch with "bark" in the name must be at least 85 percent bark of that named tree. A "mulch" material, on the other hand is only 70 percent of the named material, and it might be either bark or wood. The main difference is how long the mulch will last before breaking down. Wood breaks down quicker and is more susceptible to insect damage and discoloring than bark

Plants are referred to as annuals, or perennials. Annual plants live for only one growing season, during which they produce seeds and then die. Perennials live for more than two years.