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Ask an Arborist: Why Do We Mulch?

It is very important to remember to mulch your tree after you have planted it. Learn the importance of mulch, best practices for mulching, and the varieties to choose from.

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Why Mulch After Tree Planting

Mulch is king when it comes to tree planting and care. It is one of the most important, yet most forgotten steps of tree planting. There are three main reasons why we mulch a tree after planting:

Protection

Mulch adds a layer of protection to the tree from weeds, grass, and equipment.

Moisture

Mulch helps retain the moisture in the soil after watering.

Nutrients

Mulch is an organic layer that breaks down and provides a slow release of nitrogen to the newly planted tree.

Mulch Your Tree for Optimal Health

There are many types of mulch to choose from, but the most common mulch is wood chips. Before mulching your tree, be sure to remove grass and weeds around the tree that fall under the drip line. Then add a two to four-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, avoiding the trunk. Do not pile mulch against the trunk of a tree. This method of volcano mulching can suffocate the tree.

Once your mulch is spread out evenly, water your tree.