Mulches are materials placed over the soil surface to maintain moisture and improve soil conditions. Mulching is one of the most beneficial things a home owner can do for the health of a tree. Mulch can reduce water loss from the soil, minimize weed and grass competition, and improve soil structure. Properly applied, mulch can give landscapes a handsome, well-groomed appearance. If it is too deep or if the wrong material is used, mulch can actually cause significant harm to trees and other landscape plants.

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Consultation with a Certified Arborist is the first step in determining the condition of your trees and their needs. Consultation is a tool that Land/Home owners can use to identify the Arborist or group of Arborists that they wish to retain for the long-term more...

When placing mulch, be sure that the actual trunk of the tree is not covered. Doing so may cause decay of the living bark at the base of the tree. A mulch-free area 1 to 2 inches wide at the base of the tree is sufficient to avoid moist bark conditions and prevent decay.

Trees growing in a natural forest environment have their roots anchored in a rich, well-aerated soil full of essential nutrients. The soil is blanketed by leaves and organic materials that replenish nutrients and provide an optimal environment for root growth and mineral uptake. Urban landscapes, however, are typically a much harsher environment. Poor soils, little organic matter, competition from grasses, and large fluctuations in temperature and moisture take a toll on tree health. Applying a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch reduces these problems and allows trees to recover from the stresses of urban life.

PROPER MULCHING
Inspect plants and soil in the area to be mulched. Determine whether drainage is adequate. Determine whether there are plants that may be affected by the choice of mulch. Most commonly available mulches work well in most landscapes. Some plants may benefit from the use of a slightly acidifying mulch such as pine bark.
If mulch is already present, check the depth. Do not add mulch if there is a sufficient layer in place. Rake the old mulch to break up any matted layers and to refresh the appearance. Some landscape maintenance companies spray mulch with a water-soluble, vegetable-based dye to improve the appearance.
If mulch is piled against the stems or tree trunks, pull it back several inches so that the base of the trunk and the root crown are exposed.
Organic mulches usually are preferred to inorganic materials due to their soil-enhancing properties. If organic mulch is used, it should be well aerated and, preferably, composted. Avoid sour-smelling mulch. Don't forget to monitor the depth. As the mulch decays, it enriches soil, but then must be replaced. Once every year or two is generally often enough to keep mulch at the proper depth.
Composted wood chips can make good mulch, especially when they contain a blend of leaves, bark, and wood. Fresh wood chips also may be used around established trees and shrubs. Avoid using noncomposted wood chips that have been piled deeply without exposure to oxygen.
For well-drained sites, apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch. If there are drainage problems, a thinner layer should be used. Avoid placing mulch against the tree trunks. Place mulch out to the tree’s drip line or beyond. Some is better than none; more is better than less.

• Helps maintain soil moisture. Evaporation is reduced, and the need for watering can be minimized.
• Helps control weeds. A 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch will reduce the germination and growth of weeds.
• Serves as nature’s insulating blanket. Mulch keeps soils warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
• Improves soil aeration, structure (aggregation of soil particles), and drainage over time.
• Some mulches can improve soil fertility.
  Inhibits certain plant diseases.
• Helps facilitate maintenance and can reduce the likelihood of damage from “weed whackers” or the dreaded “lawn mower blight.”
• Gives planting beds a uniform, well-cared-for look.