What "bark" means in gardening

Bark is the protective outer layer of a tree's trunk and branches. It is made up of dead cells and serves to protect the tree from physical damage and environmental stressors. It is often used as a mulch or ground cover around plants to help retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. It can also be used as a decorative element in landscaping designs. Additionally, some types of bark, such as pine bark, can be used as a soil amendment to improve drainage and nutrient availability.