The Brown Shredded is made from local trees (mainly ficus and pine). They are screened at 1" - 2" in size. No herbicides or pesticides are used. The Brown Shredded provides a natural look to your landscape. A two-inch layer should be applied to help with moisture retention. A 3-inch layer should be applied to help with weed prevention if a weed barrier is not being used. Leave 6" - 8" bare near the base of plants.