Yes it does breakdown and forms a layer of soil. Bark does have a habit of blowing away in exposed gardens, but lets assume yours is breaking down. Pathways layed with bark break down quite readily and seeds self sow in the new soil.

Thanks botanic, that's really helpful.

Yes it sounds if Botanic is right, I have bark on weed suppresser on my garden and that breaks down after a few years into soil.

I too agree, I used to regularly put bark down in the area at the rear of my shed to keep weeds down. I moved the shed this winter and now have some lovely soil to work with and it was very easy to dig, which was a bonus!

I have clay soil (blue stuff that am sure you can make pots with) and forking in bark really helps loosen and improve it. I also add in chicken pellets every year. Huge difference.

Love you guys.