Common landscape ailments such as 'lawn mower blight' and 'weed whackeritis' mysteriously disappear when a 3 to 4 foot area of mulch is spread around the tree.
What is mulch?

Mulch is any material placed on top of the soil to cover and protect it. Common mulches include inorganic materials such as rocks, decorative gravel, or crushed lava. Other mulches are organic and include materials such as bark, woodchips, yard waste, or compost. All mulches should contain airspaces and must allow water to percolate through to the underlying soil. Avoid direct contact with the base of the tree.

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What are the benefits of using mulch around my trees?

Both organic and inorganic mulches serve several important functions. Foremost, they define the area around the tree and separate it from the surrounding landscape, such as a lawn. This simplifies tree care and enhances tree growth. Common landscape ailments such as 'lawn mower blight' and 'weed whackeritis' mysteriously disappear when a 3 to 4 foot area of mulch is spread around the tree. A layer of mulch 3 to 4 inches deep is an effective control of weeds and grass.

Mulch also insulates the soil underneath. This is especially important in the warm months to reduce water lost to evaporation. The mulch helps further by preventing erosion and compaction. The splashing that often spreads fungal disease may be controlled by mulch.

Furthermore, using organic mulch has long term benefits. Organic materials break down and enrich the soil by adding important nutrients and encouraging soil life, duplicating what mother nature does in the forest by recycling nutrients back into the soil.

There is no better method for weed control and soil conditioning than organic mulch. What's important is that the mulch is deep enough to be effective, is only used to cover the soil, is a blend of brown and green materials, and is replenished when needed. Once you have started using mulch in your landscape you will be amazed at the difference, both above and below ground.

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Are there any disadvantages to using mulch?

Disadvantages to using mulch do exist. In areas where drainage is a problem, moisture retention may not be beneficial and may encourage moisture-loving pests and diseases. It is important to deep the mulch away from the base of the tree where it holds moisture against the trunk.

When using organic mulches, especially ones made up of sawdust or straw, there is the possibility of creating a nitrogen depletion in the soil as the mulch utilizes nitrogen for its own decomposition. To avoid this problem, be sure the mulch is not incorporated into the soil, but is only used as a cover. It is also good to use mulches made up of both woody and non-woody materials, such as leaves. Organic mulches do need to be replaced over time since they decompose as they add nutrients.

The benefits of using mulch easily outweigh the potential problems.

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Should I keep a bare area around my tree?

Studies have shown that plants, especially some grasses, growing directly around a young tree actually compete with the tree for nutrients and water. Furthermore, some grasses emit growth inhibitors which greatly inhibit the growth of the trees they surround. Think about it, when you go into a meadow, are there many young trees? Tests have shown that a bare area three feet out from the trunk increases growth significantly. Keeping this area clear of grass also prevents damage from mowers and weed-whackers. Filling this area in with mulch brings other added bonuses to the tree.

Planting for tomorrow...today.