The Importance of Mulching
Mulch is a newly planted tree’s best friend and yet far too often mulching doesn’t occur
after planting a new tree. Let’s look at why mulching is so important in tree
care and the steps to doing it right.
Why Mulch is valuable part of tree care and the health of your trees
- Mulch will insulate the soil and help provide a buffer from both the heat and cold.
- Mulch will prevent soil compaction.
- Mulch will retain, which helps to keep the roots moist.
- Mulch will reduce damage to your lawn mower.
- Mulch will slow/stop weed growth and help stop root competition.
3 Steps to Add Mulch Around Your Trees
- Add mulch at the base of your tree. Remove any grass within a 3-10 foot area based on the tee size.
- Pour natural mulch like bark pieces or wood chips 2 to 5 inches deep in the circle you have created.
- Make sure that the mulch does not touch the tree trunk.
Long Term Tree Care
At least once a year you should make sure that you have a look at your trees. Inspect
them for signs of trouble such as dead limbs, insect infestation, etc. You
should also decide whether your trees need pruning. The first year or two your
focus will mostly on keeping your trees healthy and making sure that they get
established. Follow the directions of the nursery you purchased your trees from
regarding care, fertilizing, etc.
When you purchase your trees you should also make sure that you know what type of
warranty is offered should a tree not survive the transition to the soil. Many
nurseries offer a full year on large trees while others only offer 30 days.
Since your trees are an investment you should know what warranty is offered and
only make the purchase if you are happy with how the nursery backs the trees
they sell.