Homeowners and professional arborists depend on mulches in landscapes for several reasons.
Functionally, mulches discourage weeds from growing, conserve moisture during dry periods,
and allow better use of water by controlling runoff and increasing water-holding capacity of
light, sandy soils.
Mulches help maintain a uniform soil temperature. A 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch can add to
the aesthetic value of a garden while protecting the base injured by mechanical equipment.
Mulch rings also decrease competition from lawn grass. Lawn grass, especially when well
maintained, robs trees of valuable nutrients and moisture.
Many organic materials can be used as mulch. Bark mulches and wood chips are the two most
commonly used in most of the country. In the south, pine needles are included in that list.
Mulch can be applied just about any time of the year when trees and shrubs are being
planted. The best time to apply mulch in established bed areas, however, would be in midspring when soil temperature has warmed up enough for suffi cient root growth. If applied earlier, the mulch could lower soil temperature and delay root growth.
Mulches should be applied 2 to 4 inches in depth over relatively clean, weed-free soils. Never
pile mulch more than 4 inches high. Identify and eradicate weeds before the mulch is applied.
Do not allow mulch to touch tree trunks; keep mulch back about 6 to 12 inches.
Most arborists consider organic mulches as the most compatible with trees. There are, however, several inorganic materials used as mulches, including weed barriers. Black plastic is sometimes used to discourage weeds, though it interferes with normal oxygen and water supply to the tree’s roots. Plastic barriers can contribute to the creation of a very shallow root system, which, during drought periods, makes plants less capable of obtaining water or withstanding heat stress. Therefore, it is not recommended to use black plastic around trees. There are, however, several landscape fabric mulch products available that will function in the same way as plastic but allow for normal water and oxygen exchange. These materials are placed on bare soil around trees and shrubs with the mulches used on top. There are many brands and types of materials from which to choose that have proven to be benefi cial in discouraging weeds and holding soil moisture. Contact the licensed tree experts at Pardoe’s Lawn and Tree Service at 800-427-4890 for further advice on mulching your trees.
519 Washington Avenue
Chestertown, MD 21620
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