When picking out your landscaping, it’s essential to consider what kind of trees you want to plant and if you will be able to take care of them correctly. Trees are extremely important to the survival of humans. We rely on them for oxygen, shade, and food.
Once a tree reaches maturity and what is known as the sturdy phase, they are very self-sufficient, but when they are little and just planted in your yard, they depend on you a great deal. They require watering, pruning, and a good layer of mulch to help retain moisture. Mulching is highly beneficial to the survival of trees in your yard.
Retains Moisture
As the sun beats down during the heat of the day, it is constantly evaporating moisture. When mulch is around a tree, it acts as a protective barrier for the tree and keeps the moisture around the roots.
Helps Improve Soil Health
Over time, mulch will add nutrients to the soil, making it so that you won’t have to fertilize as often.
Prevents Erosion and Provides Protection During Storms
Weather and time cause erosion around tree roots and will eventually reveal them. Whether it’s wind, storms, rain, snow, or something else, weather events cause damage to trees. Having mulch around a tree will help protect the roots and keep them from being revealed.
Creates Weed Suppression
Having a layer of mulch around your trees can help keep weeds and grass from growing around them and taking up all the nutrients. If weeds and grass grow too closely around trees, they can eventually cause a disruption in the root spreading.
Types of Mulch and How to Put It Down
There are several different types of “mulch” to choose from, and aside from your preference on color and material, it’s important to consider the types of trees you are planting. Wood chips, straw, shredded leaves, pine needles, and crop remnants are all great organic mulches. Synthetic mulch is also an option as well.
When putting mulch down, you should make it at least 2 inches thick, but do not exceed 6 inches. The mulch should also spread at least 5 inches away from the trunk and go all the way around it. Over time, the mulch will thin out, and it’s important to add more to get it back to the 2-inch thickness. Don’t overdo mulch though, as it will damage the bark if there is too much present.
Call Quality Tree Service for your questions and answers regarding trees and mulching today!
