How to Effectively Use Mulch in Your Tree Landscaping

We’ve experienced a lot of heat over the past few weeks in Minnesota—and so have our trees. If your trees have sufficient mulching around the base, they may be healthier than those without. That is one reason why adding mulching to your tree landscaping routine is essential. Not sure where to start? We’ve put together an overview of the benefits and tips for successful mulching.

What is mulch?

Mulch is material spread around the base of your tree to improve the appearance of your tree landscaping and to maintain the health of your tree. Mulching is aesthetically pleasing on its own, or you may choose to add plants to the mulched area. Plantings that are native to your area and flourish in shaded areas are ideal because they will do well in your soil type. If you choose to add plants to your mulched area, be sure there is adequate drainage available to the roots.

Types of Mulch

Although there are a variety of mulches available, we recommend using organic mulch. Organic mulch can come in many forms including shredded leaves, shredded bark, wood chips or even cocoa beans. Shredded leaves are typically the least costly option; you may even decide to make your own mulching from the leaves that fall into your yard. These options may be different, but many of their benefits are the same.

Benefits of Mulch

Aesthetic Benefits Mulch is very commonly added because it improves the design of the landscape. It can create bed lines and improves the appearance of the foot of the tree. More importantly, it can control weeds, which can be unsightly and take nutrients from your tree.

Environmental Benefits In addition to the aesthetic benefits, mulch offers environmental benefits. Mulching conserves moisture and moderates the temperature of the surrounding soil. It also reduces erosion and creates matter composed of organic compounds.

What are the parameters I should follow while mulching?

Mulching should be placed close to the trunk of the tree and spread beneath the drip line (or canopy) of the tree, at two to four inches in thickness. The material of the mulch needs to be permeable to assist with air and water flow, in contrast to plastic materials which can limit the breathability.

If your region is experiencing high temperatures or drought, learn about tips on keeping your tree hydrated and healthy here.