Learn / Ask The Landscape Professional
I took this picture at a local restaurant (showing mulch built up around a tree). I can't imagine that this is good for the tree.
Answer
You are absolutely right.
This tree should not have been mulched in that manner, even
though you see this type of thing all over. Unfortunately,
many times businesses and consumers accept the low
bidder and get inexperienced landscapers who have no
idea they are causing great harm. Mulch piled like this is
commonly referred to as a 'Mulch Volcano' and it will most
certainly kill the tree. 'Mulch Volcanos' cause a number of
problems:
1. Moisture Buildup
Moisture is kept up against the tree trunk which will cause rotting and decay and is a
vehicle for fungi, insects and disease to enter the tree
2. Girdling Roots
Tree roots will actually start growing in the mulch and circle around the stem of the
tree. This will cause 'girdling roots' and will eventually strangle the tree
3. Water Redirection
Extremely thick layers of mulch will become matted and difficult for rain water to
penetrate. The hardened mulch will actually direct the water away from the tree trunk
and the root system
I can also see from your picture, that black dyed mulch was used as well, which is double
trouble as I wrote about two weeks ago. Never use dyed mulch around any plants or trees, it
could be toxic and not worth the risk.
To safely and properly mulch a tree, only use non-dyed, natural brown mulch that smells
pleasant, not like chemicals. Make sure there is only a very fine layer near the base of the
tree and the mulch doesn't touch the tree trunk. Also, make sure the 'root flare' of the tree is
exposed; depending on how the tree was planted, you may have to dig down a bit to expose
the flair (where the tree widens), If you make the mulch bowl-shaped, it will collect rainwater
and provide it to the tree. Edge around the perimeter of the mulch ring and remove all lawn
and weeds within the mulch ring. The edge will help keep the mulch within the ring and not
on the lawn. The mulch should be no more than 2-3 inches thick and the ring can be of any
diameter you like. The larger the ring, the less grass you have to cut.
If you need a bulk delivery of 10 yards or more of organic, natural brown (not dyed)
mulch, we can provide that for you. Give our office a call for pricing based on your location.
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About Linda Lillie
Linda K. Lillie is the President of Sprigs & Twigs, Inc, the premier
landscape design and maintenance, tree care, lawn care, stonework, and carpentry
service provider in southeastern Connecticut since 1997. She is a graduate of
Connecticut College in Botany, a Connecticut Master Gardener and a national
award winning landscape designer for her landscape design and landscape installation work.
