How to ensure success mulching around your trees

Published on April 30, 2025

Trees are the backbone of a well-designed landscape. They improve the aesthetics, temperature, air purification, soil conservation, noise reduction, wildlife habitat and increase property value. Mulching trees correctly will improve tree health and longevity. Learn how to spot a tree volcano and correct it.

The Huntsville Tree Commission has simple guidelines to ensure tree mulching success:

• Place a wide (2-3 feet radius) mulch bed (3-4 inches deep) around the tree. The root flare remains visible
• Use a coarse, good quality organic mulch, such as shredded bark, pine needles, aged wood chips or similar items
• The mulch does not touch the trunk; the mulch bed is shaped like a doughnut
• Loosen and replenish mulch as needed

The benefits to proper mulching are numerous:

• Reduces weed growth around the tree
• Helps retain soil moisture around the tree
• Moderates the soil temperature
• Protects the tree from lawnmower and string trimmer damage
• Decomposing mulch adds nutrients to the soil and improves soil structure
• Professional appearance

Take care to ensure mulch does not pile up against the tree trunk or that deep piles of mulch deteriorate root growth. Placing a plastic sheet under mulch should also be avoided because it blocks air and water penetration.

Want more mulching help? The International Society of Abroriculture is a great place to learn.