Mulch gives your outdoor spaces that can make your landscaping pop, protects the soil from erosion, and seals in the water your growing trees need. While putting down mulch around your trees seems relatively straightforward, common mistakes minimize the benefits or invite pests and mold. Below are a few essential do’s and don’ts to follow when sprucing up your trees.

Do:

Choose your material carefully.

A few common mulching materials can compromise the nutritional composition of the soil, so choosing the right product is essential for healthy plants. Wood chips are a popular choice for a variety of applications, along with composted leaves or sawdust mixtures.

Leave space around the trunk.

You should spread mulch to at least the edge of the outermost branches and leave a gap around the trunk. A space of two or three inches allows air to circulate the base of the tree, promoting healthy growth and reducing the risk of mold.

Don’t

Pile it on.

Ideally, the layer of mulch should be no more than three to four inches deep. A thick mound will lock in too much moisture and starve the roots of oxygen, which may cause them to grow through the mulch instead of the soil.

Forget to check the mulch.

Over time, mulch material will decompose, and a severe storm can wash away larger pieces. To keep your trees safe and healthy, check the depth of the layer once per month and add extra material when necessary.

If you’re getting your trees ready for the winter, Affordable Landscape Supplies offers a wide range of high-quality materials, with options perfect for any application. Their experts have been serving residential and commercial clients throughout Boone and Kenton County, KY, and will work with you to help find the best mulch for your needs. Visit their website for a look at their selection and call (859) 586-9142 to speak with a member of their team.