Springtime will be here before we know it. Many landscapers and homeowners take a look at neighborhood entryways and yards and determine that it is time for a refresh. After all, last year’s mulch or pinestraw has made it through cold temperatures and some wet conditions. It looks like it has seen better days.
While purchasing mulch or pinestraw and throwing it down in open areas may seem simple, we’d like to share a few simple tips and tricks for refreshing mulch or pine straw around the base of trees.
- Space-When laying down fresh mulch or pine straw, it is helpful to leave a one-foot space between the base of the tree and the start of the mulch. Driving through the Sixes Living readership area, it is easy to see many landscapes with mulch piled high around the base of a tree, leaving the tree with no breathing room. A lack of space invites extra water to sit and extra moisture can cause the tree trunk to begin rotting.
- Natural-Mulch is available in many different forms. When it comes to surrounding trees and shrubs with mulch, we recommend going organic. The recycled tire mulch is great for safety purposes at playgrounds, but does not necessarily help trees. It is highly recommended that you use an organic mulch that is not composed of potentially harmful chemicals or dyes. Natural bark or pine straw mulch are both great natural options.
- Depth-Mulch or pine straw should be no higher than 2-4 inches. Tall piles around the base of a tree can reduce the amount of oxygen to the roots.
Watch for more helpful information regarding the health or growth of trees in your yard or the installation of pine straw or mulch, in our upcoming spring issues!