Fresh bark will immobilize more N than composted bark, but you can fix that by fertilizing more frequently, something easy to do because of the fast drainage. pH depends on how often the composted bark was turned during the composting process. The less frequently it, was turned - the higher will be the level of organic acids and the lower the pH. I prefer bark that is raw or partially composted for its structural stability, though there is a good argument that thoroughly composted bark is primarily lignin and suberin - andas such, very stable. The issue with very well-composted bark is small particle size.

I haven't noticed any difference in tendencies toward hydrophobia between fresh and composted bark because I usually don't allow the containers to get that dry.

Al

Thanks Al. That is good news. A change for the plants and a holiday for me then... :-)

I like composted bark because it holds more moisture and you don't really have to deal with the N problem. I just fertilize normally. I have used both but prefer the composted.

Jane