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Mulch is a protective covering spread or left on the ground to reduce evaporation, maintain even soil tempreature, prevent erosion, control weeds, enrich the soil, or keep fruit clean.

Mimicking the natural coverings of a forest floor, mulch provides many benefits to plants and trees used in landscaping. Mulch can reduce water loss from the soil, minimize weed competition, and improve soil structure. Properly applied, mulch can give landscapes a handsome, well-groomed appearance. Mulch must be applied properly; if it is too deep or if the wrong material is used, it can actually cause significant harm to trees and other landscape plants.

In order for mulch to be beneficial, it must be properly applied. Unfortunately, many landscapes have not been properly mulched. "Mulch Volcanoes," is a term that has emerged to describe mulch being overused at the base of trees.

Problems With Improper Mulching:

• Mulch that is piled too high can lead to excess moisture buildup in the root area, which can stress the plant and cause root rot.
• Piling mulch directly against the trunk or stems of plants can stress the stem tissue and may lead to insect infestation and disease.
• Some mulches, especially products containing cut grass, can affect the pH of the soil.
• Mulch piled high against the trunks of trees may create habitats for pests such as rodents that chew the bark and can damage the trees.
• Thick blankets of very fine mulch can become constricted and may prevent the penetration of water and air. Also, a thick layer of fine mulch can behave like potting soil, supporting weed growth.
• Anaerobic or "sour" mulch may give off unpleasant odors, and the natural acids that build up from this mulch may be toxic to young plants.

Proper Mulching Guidelines:

• Inspect the plants and soil in the area to be mulched. Determine whether the drainage is adequate to allow the mulch to retain moisture but drain off excess water. Determine whether the plants in the area may be affected by the type of mulch to be used.
• If mulch has been applied to the area in the past, check the depth of the existing mulch layer. Do not add mulch if there is a sufficient layer in place (2 to 4 inches). Instead, rake the old mulch to break up any matted layers and to refresh the appearance.
• If the mulch has been piled directly against the tree trunk, pull it back so that the base of the trunk and the root crown are exposed.
• For sites with sufficient drainage, apply a 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch around the tree. If there are drainage problems, such as puddling, a thinner layer of mulch should be used. Avoid placing mulch directly against the tree trunks. Place mulch out to the "drip line" of the tree or beyond.

Remember: The mulch pattern should be wide, not deep.