Mulch
Mulch is any material applied to the surface of soil to conserve moisture, regulate temperature, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure as it decomposes. Organic mulches — including barkdust, wood chips, leaf litter, and straw — are preferred in tree and shrub management because they improve soil biology as they break down. Correct mulching technique is one of the highest-return tree care practices available to property owners, yet it is frequently applied incorrectly — particularly in the form of mulch volcanoes around tree bases that cause crown rot and decline. This collection covers mulch types, correct application depth and placement, soil health benefits, weed suppression, and common mulching errors.
Reference Notes
- A 75–100 mm layer of organic mulch can reduce soil moisture evaporation by up to 70% during summer drought conditions.
- Mulch should never contact the trunk or root flare of a tree — the commonly seen mulch volcano accelerates crown rot and bark beetle infestation.
- Organic mulch can lower soil temperature by up to 10°C in summer — a critical benefit for shallow-rooted trees in urban environments.
Mulch Guides
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