Mulch Benefits
An application of shredded hardwood mulch around your trees and shrubs creates numerous benefits. Mulch conserves moisture in the soil and helps to lessen temperature fluctuations, thus protecting and nurturing the roots. It also serves as a light barrier to open soil, aiding in the prevention of weed-seed germination. A ring of mulch around the base of your trees makes it unnecessary to mow against the tree trunk, preventing bark damage. The mulch should be applied to form a saucer around the tree with the mulch being about 2–3 inches thick at the edge of the ring and 1/2–1 inch thick closer to the trunk. Correct mulching does not include piling mulch directly up against the trunk as is commonly seen. This only promotes certain insect and disease problems.
The proper mulch ring diameter is frequently in question. The answer is debatable, but in general, the bigger the better. Ideally, the mulched area should continue well beyond the tree canopy. This allows the tree roots to capitalize on water, nutrients and air space without competition from turf. Most times this is not practical with trees in the home landscape, so tree rings are commonly 4–8 feet in diameter.
We recommend shredded hardwood bark mulch for the following reasons:
- Erosion Control
The shredded material knits together to form a single layer
- Organic
It’s non-toxic and adds nutrients to the soil through decomposition
- Long-lasting
Native hardwoods of Red and White Oak decompose slowly
- Economical
Available locally compared to exotics (Eucalyptus, Cocoa Shells, Cypress)
- Color
Dark brown color blends in well with most landscapes