Mulching is one of the most beneficial things that you can do to keep your trees healthy. If done incorrectly, however, it can also lead to the death of your tree. Mulching increases soil organic matter, water-holding capacity and nutrient availability. It also acts as an insulator, buffering the soil from rapid temperature changes. It helps control weeds and protects the trees’ trunk from being hit by the lawn equipment.
To properly apply mulch, place a 2-4 inch layer of mulch in the shape of a saucer at least two to three feet out from the trunk of the tree. Do not pile the mulch up against the trunk of the tree. Mulch mounded up against a tree’s trunk (volcano mulching) can cause bark rot, which makes the tree vulnerable to disease and insect problems and may even lead to death of the tree. For more information, please contact Public Works at 630-469-6756.