Figure 1
Mulches are materials placed over the soil surface to maintain moisture and improve soil conditions. Mulching is one of the most beneficial things a homeowner can do for the health of a tree. Mulch can reduce water loss from the soil, minimize weed competition, and improve soil structure. Properly applied, mulch can give landscapes a handsome, well-groomed appearance. Mulch must be applied properly; if it is too deep or if the wrong material is used, it can actually cause significant harm to trees and other landscape plants.
Figure 2
Master Gardner Ed Schuckert brought to my attention the proliferation of mulch volcanoes, not only in Sun City but throughout North America. The term mulch volcano is used to describe mulch that has been piled around the base of trees. As beneficial as mulch is, too much can be harmful. The generally recommended mulching depth is 2 to 4 inches. Many of these mulch volcanoes pile 6 to 8 inches of mulch directly against the tree trunk. (See figure 1.)
Figure 3
Piling mulch against the trunk or stems of plants can stress stem tissues and may lead to insect and disease problems. It also may create habitats for rodents that chew the bark and can girdle the trees.
Where the tree trunk enters the ground, the root flare; the shoulder of the large roots should be visible. If it is not, the mulch is smothering the tree. (See figure 2.)
Many residents use professional lawn care services, and many of them are improperly mulching trees and bushes with mulch volcanoes. If your trees have mulch volcanoes, you should correct this problem as soon as possible. Trees should be mulched as seen in figure 3.
If you have suggestions for future tips or have questions about maintenance around your home, submit them to ask.the.woodchucks@gmail.com.
