How to Mulch Around Trees

Mulching Trees

Introduction:

Putting mulch around a tree not only makes lawns more attractive but also provides many benefits. Tree mulch protective covering controls weeds, helps maintain moisture and temperature in the soil near the tree and saves it from damage caused by insects, lawn equipment and some diseases. The most frequently asked question is how much mulch to put around trees.

To mulch around a tree can cause potential problems. Mulch applied incorrectly may stimulate the growth of fungus and attract insects that can potentially damage the tree. Here are a few tips to guide you through the correct process of mulching around a tree.

Appling mulch to trees:

• Purchase a rake and some natural mulch such as cedar wood chips from your local lawn and garden store.

• Prepare the area around the tree by removing any debris, sticks, limbs and weeds.

• Rake the area to make the ground around the tree as even as possible.

• Apply the mulch in a circle around the tree but not up against the bark. Apply it out to about the length of the limbs on small, young trees. For larger trees measure about a 12 foot span around the base of the tree.

• Apply about 2 to 4 inches of mulch in depth.

• Spread the mulch out evenly around the tree by using a rake.

• Check the appearance of the mulch ring and make any adjustments to make the shape even.

• Apply water around the mulched tree if the soil is very dry.

• Check your mulched tree throughout the season for weeds and pull them as needed.

Always apply the mulch evenly, avoiding piles. The once popular "volcano" look in which mulch is piled in a cone shape around the tree can actually be damaging to the roots and bark. It can reduce absorption of water, oxygen and sunlight which encourage insects and fungal growth and even provide a home for rodents and small animals.

Plan to apply the mulch in the spring after the ground's temperature has warmed. Make old mulch around trees look fresh by raking it instead of adding more mulch to it. Always use natural mulch around trees. Artificial mulch can smother the tree roots because water and oxygen cannot penetrate through it to the root system. Natural mulch adds organic material to the soil, which is beneficial to trees.

If the soil around the tree you are mulching is poor or the tree does not appear to be thriving, add natural or commercial fertilizer prior to applying the mulch.

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