“Mulch volcanoes”... As beneficial as mulch is, too much can be harmful (as shown in the 2 images attached). Mulch volcanoes are excessive piles of mulch materials applied around the base of trees. DO NOT DO THIS!
Problems Associated with Improper Mulching
• On wet soils, deep mulch can lead to excess moisture in the root zone, which can stress the plant and cause root rot.
• Piling mulch against the trunk or stems of plants can stress stem tissues and may lead to the development of insect and disease problems or stem girdling roots. YOU DO NOT WANT YOUR TREES TO LOOK LIKE TELEPHONE POLES STRAIGHT DOWN INTO THE GROUND. Be sure to keep the trees natural root flare exposed!
• Some mulches, especially those containing fresh grass clippings, can affect soil pH and may eventually lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxic buildups.
• Mulch piled high against the trunks of young trees may create habitats for rodents that chew the bark and can girdle the trees.
• Thick blankets of fine mulch can become matted and may reduce the penetration of water and air.
• Anaerobic “sour” mulch may give off pungent odors, and the alcohols and organic acids that build up may be toxic to young plants.
PROPER MULCHING TECHNIQUES
The generally recommended mulching depth is 2 to 4 inches.
• Determine whether soil drainage is adequate and if there are plants that may be affected by the choice of mulch.
• For well-drained sites, apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch (less if poorly drained). Place mulch out to the edge of a tree’s crown or beyond.
• If mulch is already present, check the depth. If sufficient mulch is present, break up any matted layers and refresh the appearance with a rake.
• If mulch is piled against the stems or tree trunks, pull it back several inches/centimeters so that the base of the trunk is exposed.
For more information on proper mulching techniques, check out this link! https://www.treesaregood.org/.../treecare/ProperMulching.pdf
Please keep these proper mulching techniques in mind while installing mulch around your trees this spring.
