As we start the week of with some mulching, it's important to understand this concept: the reason of mulching and why it's important for our small trees in our growing garden. Some background information on mulch: Mulch is basically compost mixed in with bark and/or wood. Mulching is used to improve a trees health. It is a layer spread around our trees at a certain diameter in order to help stop weeds from growing. In a way, mulch is a protector for the soil. Mulch is needed in order to prevent any root competition, it holds moisture in and prevents soil compaction as well. As it breaks down, the nutrients from the mulch transfers to the soil and adds nutrients which is a big help to the trees. It is very important not to let the mulch come in contact with the trunk or else it will kill the tree instead of allowing it to grow. When the mulch touches the trunk, the roots growing upwards will cause stem girdling roots and eventually kill the tree, which is something we don't want for our tree! You should never let a layer become deeper than 3, or even worse, 4 inches inches. Spread the mulch wide enough to cover the root system and remember to mulch on newly planted trees. We started to sheep mulch near our beds, but take a turn in mulching a tree sometime! The trees will thank you for giving them a boost of life!
Geraldin Hernandez
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