Replacing Rock Mulch with Bark: Remove All Rock, Skip Fabric, Use Preen

Step-by-Step

1. Remove every rock—rake, shovel, wheelbarrow. Give to a neighbor who wants them.
2. Do NOT push rocks against the house; they trap moisture against the foundation.
3. Apply granular pre-emergent (Preen) per label.
4. Spread 3 inches of shredded bark or composted mulch.
5. Reapply Preen in 3 months; top up mulch annually.

Why No Fabric

Fabric blocks weeds from below but does nothing for seeds blowing in on top. Mulch itself suppresses weeds when maintained at 3 inches. Fabric eventually surfaces and looks terrible.