Reviewed by Specialty Soils Updated August 24, 2026
Direct answer
Choose fine bark for a tighter, more refined surface and medium bark for a coarser, more visibly textured appearance.
Choose texture by the finished surface you want
“Fine” and “medium” are useful Specialty Soils grade names, but they are not universal standardized sizes across every supplier.
| Decision | Fine BeautIBARK | Medium BeautIBARK |
|---|---|---|
| Finished look | Tighter, more refined surface | Coarser, more visibly textured bark appearance |
| Current choices | Fine Black or Fine Orange | Medium BeautIBARK |
| Best comparison | Use current Specialty Soils product photos and samples rather than another supplier's grade labels. | |
Specialty Soils product fact: Bark color is achieved naturally. No dyes are used. Appearance can vary and change as the natural material weathers.
Depth is a separate decision
Once texture is selected, measure the existing bed and calculate only the missing depth. Use the Bark & Mulch Calculator instead of automatically applying a full new layer.
Connected planning path
Turn the guide into a mulch plan
Choose the surface material, measure only the depth needed and plan bulk handling.