For over two decades our arborists have been specifying the use of mulch to improve the health and vitality of trees and plants with great long-term results. Good quality tree mulch (as opposed to some commercial tan bark or coloured mulch) provides a range of advantages for trees, plants and soil that include:
- Improved moisture retention.
- Improved soil structure over time.
- Improved environment for beneficial soil fauna such as worms.
- Improved microbial environment with slow release of nutrients.
- Natural decompaction of soil.
- Better environment to promote essential tree and plant feeder roots.
- Improved tree and plant health to resist pests and disease.
- Improved tree and plant life expectancy.
- Aids tree and plant recovery from stress, injury or disease.
Tips for mulching around trees:
- Best to use good quality aged mulch that appears rich and friable.
- Never apply too deeply – an 8-10cm layer is enough.
- Apply to as large an area as possible around the tree (to the drip-line of the canopy).
- Avoid pedestrian or vehicle traffic on mulched areas.
- Never use wood chips from diseased trees or recently chipped living trees without aeration, ageing or inoculation.