Proper Mulching
Techniques -
To improve soil conditions
and maintain moisture mulches are placed on top of the soil surface. One of the
best things that you as a homeowner can do for the benefit of your trees is to
mulch. Mulching will minimize weeds, improve the soil conditions, and decrease
the amount of water loss from your soil. When correctly applied, mulching can
give your landscapes a well-groomed and attractive look. Mulch has to be applied
correctly if you apply it to deeply or if the incorrect materials are used it
can harm your landscape plants and trees considerably.
Trees that grow in a normal
forest setting have their roots secured in a, well-aerated soil full of vital
enriched nutrients. Organic materials cover the soil that put nutrients back
into the soil, and offer a perfect environment for plant root growth. Urban
landscapes, survive in a somewhat harsher environment with little organic
matter, poor quality soils, and huge changes in moisture and temperature.
Putting on a two- to four-inch layer of organic mulch can imitate a more natural
environment that will improve the health of your plants.
The tops of trees are not a
mirror image of the root system. The roots of the majority of trees can continue
out a considerable distance from the tree of the trunk. However, the teaching
for many repair practices is the drip line, this is the furthest extension of
the trees branches. The roots grow far beyond the drip line. Additionally, the
majority of the fine, absorbing roots are situated within a few inches of the
surface soil. These roots, are necessary for taking up minerals and water,
require oxygen to stay alive. A thin layer of mulch, applied as broadly as
realistic, can enhance the soil structure, temperature, oxygen levels, and
moisture available to where the roots grow.
Types of Mulch
- Commercial mulches are
available in a variety of forms. The two basic types of mulch are organic and
inorganic. Inorganic mulches contain various types of pulverized rubber, stone,
geotextile fabrics, lava rock, and other types of materials. Inorganic mulches
do not decay and do not have to be replaced often, but they do not add organic
materials, provide nutrients, or improve soil structure. For these exact
reasons, most arborists and horticulturists favor organic mulches.
Organic mulches include pine needles, wood chips, softwood
bark, and hardwood, leaves, cocoa hulls, compost mixes, and a number of other
products typically originating from plants. Organic mulches decay in the
landscape at various rates depending on the material. Mulches that decay sooner
must be replaced more frequently. The rotting procedure improves soil
characteristics and fertility, a lot of arborists and other landscape
professionals regard this feature a positive one, regardless of the additional
upkeep.
Not Too Much!
- As helpful as mulch
can be, too much can be damaging. The suggested mulching depth is two to
four inches. Regrettably, North American landscapers are over mulching. The
majority of organic mulches have to be replaced, but the rate of
decomposition can vary. Some mulch, such as the cypress mulch, remains
intact for years. Top dressing with more mulch yearly produces a buildup of
depths that may be unhealthy. Deep mulching can be successful in reducing
weeds and work, but it can cause added problems.
Problems Associated with Improper Mulching
Deep mulching can lead to excess moisture in the
root area, which can stress the plant and produce root rot.
Piling mulch against the trunk or stems of plants
can stress stem tissues and may lead to disease and insect troubles.
Some mulch, particularly those that contain cut grass, can affect soil pH.
Sustained use of specific mulches over long periods can lead to toxicities or
micronutrient deficiencies.
Mulch piled up high against the trunks of young
trees may create habitats for rodents that chew the bark and can girdle the
trees.
Thick piles of fine mulch can
become matted and may prevent the penetration of air and water. As well, a deep
layer of fine mulch can become like potting soil-causing weed to grow.
Anaerobic mulch can give off pungent odor, and
the alcohols and organic acids that build up may be toxic to young plants.
Proper Mulching -
It is plain to see
that the kind of mulch you use and, the way you apply it can be significant
to the health of your landscape plants. Below are some principles that you
should to apply mulch.
Check your soil and plants in the
area you want to mulch. Decide whether the drainage is sufficient. Verify
whether there are plants that may be affected by your choice of mulch. Nearly
all of the mulches that are available work well. A number of plants can benefit
from the use of somewhat acidifying mulch like pine bark.
If you already have mulch check
on the depth. Do not apply any mulch if you have an adequate layer. Rake your
old mulch to loosen up any matted layers and to renew the look. A number of
landscape companies cover mulch with vegetable-based dye to enhance the
appearance.
If your mulch is piled
up against tree trunks or plant stems, rake it back so that the base of the tree
trunk and root crown are uncovered.
Organic mulches are normally preferred to inorganic mulches because of their
soil-enhancing property. If you are going to use organic mulch, it should be
properly aerated and, if possible, composted. Stay away from sour-smelling
mulch. Composted wood chips are excellent for mulches, particularly when they
include a blend of bark, wood, and leaves. New wood chips can also be used
around established shrubs and trees. Keep away from using non-composted wood
chips that have been piled deeply with no exposure to the air.
For well-drained areas, put on a two- to four-inch layer of mulch. Use a thin
layer of mulch if you have poor drainage. Stay away from putting mulch against
the trunks of trees. Place the mulch out to the tree’s drip line and beyond.
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