The Right Way to Apply Mulch (see http://arbordayblog.org/treecare/arborist-advice-mulching-101/ for the entire blog)

The best way to apply mulch to your trees is to mimic their natural environment. The forest floor is typically blanketed with organic material like leaves and pine needles, which help regulate soil temperature, retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Watch Ask an Arborist: Why do We Mulch?

Spring is the best time to apply mulch, after the ground has thawed. Before mulching, ensure proper soil drainage and remove grass from a three to ten foot circle around the base of the tree. It’s important to avoid spraying herbicides, like Roundup, to remove the grass; dig it up instead.

Spreading a layer of compost prior to mulching, followed by watering, will feed your trees. Spread two to three inches of mulch on top of the compost, using a rake to spread the mulch out evenly.

Over-mulching is one of the most common mistakes people make and it can have disastrous results when it comes to the health of your trees. A dense layer of mulch can starve plants of oxygen and contribute to disease.

Avoid volcano mulching, which is piling mulch up against the base of the tree. The tree’s “root flare,” which is where the trunk ends and roots begin, should be kept completely clear of mulch.

Mulch should also be kept at least six inches away from the foundation of any structure or wood surface to prevent subterranean termites from moving in.

Mulch provides countless benefits to the trees on your property, and it’s one of the best investments you can make in the health and longevity of your trees. In the urban landscape, mulch nourishes and protects your trees, setting them up for success.