Shredded hardwood mulch is popular in the Metroplex, where these tree dominate the East Texas forest, where the supply come from the lumber mills. Good hardwood mulch consists mainly of shredded oak and elms, and hickory trees. It is naturally dark brown and knits together well, so it usually stays in place during a hard rain. But it also packs down easily, and does not easily float away like pine bark mulch.Typical applications are done in 1" to 2 1/2" depths.