Mulching is an essential part of landscaping, especially when it comes to newly planted trees. It helps protect the tree's root system, eliminates competition for water and nutrients, and provides a more natural look to the landscape. But how do you mulch a newly planted tree correctly?The key is to apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch and no more. If you use fine-textured or double-shredded mulch, use 1 to 2 inches, as these materials allow less oxygen to reach the root zone.
Spread the mulch evenly around the tree and leave a few inches around the trunk so that the planted root remains exposed. Make sure that no mulch touches the trunk itself. The ideal is to mulch up to a tree's drip line. Mulching also has other benefits. It creates a safety zone around the trunks, protecting them from damage caused by the lawnmower; recycles garden and landscape waste; and provides a favorable environment for earthworms and other organisms that benefit soil structure and fertility.
It's important to note that volcanic mulching looks aesthetically pleasing, but it's terrible for the health and longevity of trees. Once you have chosen the right plant for a given site and followed the proper planting procedures, you should mulch the plant and create a stable environment for root growth. A thinner layer of mulch over a wider area is much better than a mulch volcano for the health and longevity of the tree. And if you're looking for great ideas on what trees to add to your garden, check out The Morton Arboretum's best trees for small gardens. Although generally not suitable as mulch for gardens, volcanic rock provides protection during the winter and is a good cover for grass seeds. So if you're looking to add some trees to your landscape, make sure you follow these tips on how to mulch them correctly.
