What You Need to Know about Mulching
Trees provide all sorts of blessings for us. For one, it offers shade against the intense heat of the sun. It also offers a nice and safe living spot for birds and other creatures. At the same time, it also bears delicious fruits that can satisfy our hunger and make us healthy as well. That is why we should do all we can to protect and ensure proper growth of trees around us.
However, trees can also cause destruction although it is not entirely their fault. When a tree falls, it can damage a house or any property near it. In such cases, you should call tree removal services immediately to avoid further damage and ensure safety to those around the area.
Meanwhile, there are ways to maintain trees. One is by regularly trim and prune the trees so it can grow better. Calling tree cutting services may also be needed if it is diseased or damaged due to environmental reasons. Another way is by adding mulch around the root area. However, you should know first what mulching is all about, how to mulch properly, and how it can benefit your trees and your yard.
What is mulching?
Mulch refers to a material that is placed on the soil and serves as a covering. One major benefit of mulching is that it retains soil moisture, prevents the growth of weeds, and ensure that the soil is cool enough. Plus, mulch can make your yard look more pleasant to the eyes depending on the type of mulch you use.
Speaking of mulch type, there are organic and inorganic ones. Mulch is not used to beautify a yard. As mentioned, it can help promote tree growth and improve the soil around it. You can find an arborist to help you with proper mulching.
Types of organic mulches
On one hand, organic mulches can easily decompose and improve the fertility of the soil. Among popular types of organic mulch include:
Bark
This is one of the most popular type of mulches that are commonly used around shrubs, gardens, and trees. It has a coarse texture that doesn’t mix with the moist soil, yet it can last longer than other types of organic mulches.
Grass Clippings
Grass clippings can help in suppressing the growth of weeds and promotes better plant and tree growth. Expert tree services suggest using a mulching mower and leaving the grass clippings on the yard area. This will improve the soil’s fertility and promote better plant growth.
Leaves
This is also another popular type of mulch that can look good on your yard soil. You can spread a layer of shredded leaves onto your yard so it will decompose in time for winter.
Types of inorganic mulches
Meanwhile, there are also what we call inorganic or synthetic mulches. Like organic mulches, inorganic mulches are also good in maintaining soil moisture and preventing the growth of weeds. Among these include the following.
Rubber
Also known as buffings, this one is usually made from shaved or chopped rubber tires. Rubber mulch can help in insulating soil, slows down the growth of weeds, and avoiding soil moisture loss.
Stone or gravel
This type of mulch is great for yard areas that need ample drainage or those with plants that need a little heat. Gravel or stone mulch can also make a landscaped yard look better.
Plastic or fabric
These are good mulch options around trees, shrubs, and foundation plantings. Weeding may not be needed regularly as well as frequent fertilization. For landscape fabric mulches, make sure to punch holes to let water pass through it and into the soil. You can also hire arborist services for your mulching needs.
How to mulch your trees
Here are some tips for proper mulching:
- Do not do the so-called “volcano mulching” or else you may end up calling tree cutting services because of a damaged tree.
- Look for the root flare or the tree part where the trunk begins to sprout from the roots. If the tree has been planted already too deeply, dig the mulch away and spread a little for better mulch distribution.
- Make sure not to create a mound-shaped mulch around your plant or tree area. As mentioned, it is better that the mulch is spread evenly away from the plant or tree.
- Find an arborist in Montgomery County for your tree care and maintenance needs.