Are You Mulching the Right Way, Moorestown?

Moorestown, NJ -- 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” thick. Every spring, break up old mulch and add new to maintain a 2-4” 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 of the trees.

Help us in getting this message out! If you use a lawn or landscaping company to do your mulching and your trees are being improperly mulched, share this article with them!

If you have any questions, you can reach the Tree Committee at moorestowntrees@gmail.com.

Happy Mulching!