Spring has sprung, but before you put on your gardening gloves, the Moorestown Tree Planting and Preservation Committee would like to remind residents of good mulching practices around trees.
Mulch should never be piled up against the tree trunk. Mulching in a “volcano” shape can make the tree more susceptible to fungus, insects, and rodents.
Instead, mulch should be purposed in a “donut” shape.
Keep mulch 6 inches from the trunk of trees, and mulch out as far as the branches extend above. Keep the mulch 2 to 4 inches thick.
Every spring, break up old mulch and add new to maintain a 2 to 4 inch layer.
Properly applied mulch provides many benefits, such as the prevention of soil compaction and retention of water in soil for tree roots. Mulch also keeps lawn equipment from damaging tree trunks, moderates temperature, reduces competing vegetation, and provides nutrients to trees as it breaks down.
Think of mulch as a life preserver for your trees. Don’t kill them by piling up mulch against the trunk of the trees.
If you have any questions, email the tree committee at moorestowntrees@gmail.com.
