Where can I purchase Tanbark to use for groundcover? I live in
Huntingburg, Indiana. I am interested in about 1000 pounds-preferally
in 50 pound bags.

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Request for Question Clarification by ericynot-ga on 05 Dec 2002 09:31 PST

Hello again taw-ga,

I received this email from a contact at a tannery: 

"Eric,
         Tan bark is a bi-product of the timber industry.  A number of
tree
species yeild bark that contains tannin.  The tree that imediately
comes to
mind is hemlock.  However, as far as I know, bark from trees grown in
North
America is no longer used for tanning purposes.  Tree bark is however
used
extensively in the hoticultural industry as growing media for
ornamental
plants.  There are companies that specialize in supplying growers with
blended growing media based on bark such as pine or hemlock.

         My suggestion is to contact a greenhouse that produces plants
in
large pots, or garden centre, ask where they they obtain their growing
media, and follow through from there.  Of course, the type of bark
they
uase will depend on the trees growing close to them.
                                                         T. Rudd."

So, it looks like we're unlikely to come up with authentic tanbark
that you can purchase. But if you'd like, I can see what other barks
might be available in your area.

Just let me know how you wish to proceed.

ericynot-ga

I'm still waiting for my possible source to respond - it will probably
not be before Monday. Keep your fingers crossed.