Good Vs. Bad Mulching

Spring has sprung, but before you put on your gardening gloves, the Moorestown Tree Planting and Preservation Committee would like to remind residents of good mulching practices around trees.

Mulch should never be piled up against the tree trunk. Mulching in a “volcano” shape can make the tree more susceptible to fungus, insects and rodents. Instead mulch in a “donut” shape.

Keep mulch 6 inches from the trunk and mulch out as far as the branches extend above. Keep the mulch 2-4 inches thick. Every spring, break up old mulch and add new to maintain a 2-4 inch layer.

Properly applied mulch provides these benefits:

• Prevents soil compaction
• Retains water in the soil for tree roots
• Keeps lawn equipment from damaging the trunk
• Moderates temperature
• Reduces competing vegetation
• Provides nutrients to the tree as it breaks down

Think of the mulch as a life preserver for your trees! Don’t choke them by piling up mulch against the trunk.  

Happy mulching!

- Courtesy of Kathy Logue, member of the Moorestown Tree Planting & Preservation Committee