Organic bark mulch is designed to protect trees and plants from extreme heat of the afternoon sun and our chilly nights in Central Florida. While insulating the soil, mulch also conserves moisture and aids in the growth of roots, vital for healthy trees and plants.
The Elements Making Up Bark Mulch
Mulch break down and improves the quality of the soil and becomes a source of nutrients for the tree. The larger the bark mulch the larger it takes to break down, which means you won’t have to replenish it as often.
Applying too much mulch can be devastating to a tree or plant. Which is easier than you think when applying new mulch over existing mulch. You want about three to four inches of mulch.
Avoid Volcano Mulching
This is when mulch is piled high against the trunk of the tree, resembling a volcano. It can even be a death sentence for a tree. It allows the base of the tree to be accumulate too much moisture. Which can be devastating, causing diseases, splitting, cankers, decay, root rot, and insect infestation. Mulch around a tree should resemble a flat donut shape.
Tree Care Guide Describes the Best Way to Apply Mulch Around a Tree
It is inappropriate to place the matter around the trunk of the tree. The effects of Volcano mulching can be grave, as it promotes deterioration and is a great environment for pests and unwanted insects.
As a good point of reference, place the mulch starting 2-4 inches away from the trunk, and continue out slightly past the drip line.
Since the root system usually extends beyond the drip line, it’s okay and appropriate to cover the radius beyond the drip line with mulch as well. Essentially, mulch covers the roots and ground around the roots of trees.
Quality of the Mulch Matters
Make sure the mulch you purchase isn’t full of fillers and construction materials. When you walk up to a pile of mulch you should be able to clearly see and even smell the quality.
Bulk mulch from Reliable Peat offers the best quality, a premium not often found in bag mulch from big box stores. If you have any doubts, just stop by one of our stores and look for yourself.
For a limited time Reliable Peat is offering 10% off all bulk orders over 6 yards!
