The Importance of Proper Mulching

A newly planted tree’s best friend is mulch. It is very important to remember to mulch your tree after you have planted it.
Mulch is a valuable for your trees health and care because
•    Mulch insulates the soil helping to provide a buffer from heat and cold temperatures.
•    Mulch retains water helping to keep the roots moist.
•    Mulch keeps weeds out to help prevent root competition.
•    Mulch prevents soil compaction.
•    Mulch reduces lawn mower damage.
Steps to Adding Mulch Around Your Tree
1.    Add mulch to the base of your tree by removing any grass within a 3 to 10-foot area depending on the size of your tree.
2.    Pour natural mulch such as wood chips or bark pieces 2 to 4 inches deep within the circle.
3.    Keep the mulch from touching the trunk of the tree.
4.    Water tree properly. 
Hazards of “volcano mulching”
•    Too much moisture built up at the root ball and base of trunk leading to rot and decay
•    Ideal environment for fungus, insects and burrowing pests.
•    Unnatural root development due to soil compaction. 
Graphics
a)    photo of proper mulching and photo of improper mulching or “volcano mulching”
b)    photo of above grade roots: Unnatural root development due to improper mulching and will result in the likelihood of stunted growth and declining health of the tree.