Proper mulching can help protect trees. Mulch can reduce water loss from evaporation, control weed growth, improve soil quality and reduce plant disease. It will add a professional appearance and reduces damage from weed trimmers.
A 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch will protect the delicate roots that absorb water, oxygen and minerals. These roots are located in the top few inches of soil. Mulch helps control fluctuations in temperature and moisture.
You want to mulch wide rather than deep. Spread the mulch out to the width of the branches where possible. Keep the base of the tree and the root crown exposed. The root crown is the main root that breaks away from the trunk. This needs to breathe.
Do not pile up mulch around the base of the tree. This can cause the bark to rot, encourage disease and insect damage.
The best depth is 2 to 4 inches. Once a year, rake the mulch up to keep it from getting matted. You want water and oxygen to more through this layer.
Use natural mulch rather than rubber mulch. Rubber mulch can overheat and dry out the delicate surface roots and the bark.
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