Adding mulch to your landscape is actually one of the best and easiest things you can do for your trees, as long as it is done correctly! Mulch around your trees allows for a more attractive landscape, helps to control weeds, and also assists in maintaining moisture in the soil. When there is too much mulch, it can lead to problems with fungus, insects, and dry soil. Read along for the best mulch practices to help your trees flourish.
How Mulch can Help Your Trees
There is a multitude of benefits that placing mulch around your trees can bring including:
- Increased growth for new trees
- Moisture retention in soil
- Controls weeds, fungus, and diseases
- Moderates root temperatures
- Improves soil structure
- Improves fertility
Stay Away from Mulch Volcanoes
If you are someone who adds mulch to your landscape every year, you may be no stranger to the mulch volcanoes. Mulch volcanoes arise when instead of removing old mulch, you simply pile a new layer on top. This is harmful to your trees because too much mulch prevents water from reaching the soil, meaning the roots of your trees will not be receiving any nutrients or moisture. If your mulch volcano is touching the trunk of your trees, there will be too much moisture build up, causing bark to crack and allowing an opening for insects and fungus.
How to Place Your Mulch
There is a method to the madness of placing mulch in your landscape. Follow these tips:
- Shovel and get rid of any old mulch that has been piling up
- Place mulch at least 5 inches away from the trunk of the tree
- Make sure the mulch is no more or less than 2 to 4 inches deep
- The best mulch to use is natural; wood or bark chips are the way to go
- Extend your mulch 3-6 feet in all directions
- Create a mulch barrier with rocks of some sort; this will ensure the mulch will not wash away during a rainy day
East Coast Tree Services
We are a team of tree care professionals at East Coast Tree Services. As you are preparing to mulch your landscape this season, keep these tips and tricks in mind for a successful and happy tree planting! If you have any remaining questions or concerns regarding your mulched landscape, feel free to give our experts a call today!
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