30 Jun How to Mulch Around Trees the Right Way

Whether you’re an avid gardener or a homeowner who just wants a few trees on the property to maintain their health and appeal, you’ve probably already encountered the idea of mulching. You may have heard that mulching retains water and prevents erosion but you should know how to mulch around trees properly to obtain these effects.

At Santa Rita Landscaping with top-of-the-line tree removal services in Tuscon, AZ, we have 40 years of experience creating and customizing care requirements for residential and commercial greenery. Trust us to relay our proven methods.

Tree Mulching Benefits You Probably Didn’t Know

Before delving into mulching techniques for trees, let’s consider the pros of mulching the right way. Mulching is ideal for retaining ground moisture so trees don’t dehydrate in the hot Arizona sun or 102-degree summer highs. It traps water, evenly distributing it to the soil while insulating the roots and keeping them cool.

However, it also acts as a barrier against weeds, keeping them from growing near your tree’s base and sucking up all the water and nutrients. Mulch also:

• Adds nutrients to the soil during decomposition (if organic)
• Reduces soil erosion caused by winds and water runoff
• Protects against diseases like fungal spores

The Proper Tree Mulching Method

Now let’s look at how to mulch around trees.

The Preparation Process

First, a professional marks the tree’s dripline and clears the area, removing grass, rocks, dirt, twigs, and other debris. That includes pulling out weeds and trimming upward-growing roots that can eventually loop around the tree’s base.

Choosing the Mulch

Next, the expert chooses the right mulch, such as organic mulch for trees, which includes wood chips, pine needles, and straw that regulate moisture and temperature while slowly decomposing for soil health. Inorganic mulch like gravel or rocks, however, retains heat, drains water, and lasts longer so you don’t have to touch it up. Finally, planting living mulch like creeping thyme and clovers adds nitrogen and greenery.

Laying It Down

After choosing the best mulch for trees like yours, the arborist creates a circular pattern with a three-to-five-foot diameter and two-to-four-inch mulch depth around trees. They should leave a two-inch space between the inner mulch ring and the tree base and create a barrier around the outer ring with stones or wood for further protection.

What Not to Do When Mulching

The tree’s dripline marks the canopy’s circumference and how far the roots reach. So if you don’t mulch the full dripline, you’re not protecting all the roots. Also, refrain from creating a mountain appearance with the mulch and pressing it against the tree’s trunk since the root crown and base need oxygen.

Landscaping Is in Our Name!

Tree effects on air quality are great since they cleanse the air of pollution and offer ample oxygen. Learning how to mulch around trees protects them while they protect you. Santa Rita Landscaping boasts an A+ BBB rating and provides top solutions for all tree needs. Call 520-623-0421 in Tuscon, AZ whether you need help protecting your yard from harsh heat or supplying nutrients today!