The Do’s and Don’ts of Mulch

In the spring, it’s important to mulch around your plants and trees. But doing it incorrectly, or using the wrong mulch material, can be worse than not mulching at all. Here are some things to watch out for, so you don’t make these mistakes:

  1. DON’T use the wrong mulch material. As you know, we prefer organic materials that feed the soil best. But before you choose what material to mulch with, be sure you know what type of soil you have, the plants you’ll be working with, and the area where you live. For instance, if you are in an area that has ticks, which can carry Lyme Disease, beware because ticks like dark, moist places. That’s another reason why you shouldn’t pile up the mulch too high. If you make it deeper than two to four inches, you will also attract rodents who will try to make their home in it. Ants and termites might be attracted to the mulch, especially if it is made of cypress and pine. If it is made from cedar, they’ll stay away.
  2. DON’T exceed the correct amount of mulch. As we said, your mulch should be about two to four inches deep. Any more than that, besides attracting rodents, will prevent water from getting to the soil.
  3. DON’T pile up the mulch at the base of the tree. This could actually kill the tree, encouraging diseases and fungus, because it makes the trunk too wet. Certain plants and trees will likely get root rot from too much moisture being held in. The tree may also suffocate because mulch up against the trunk will keep oxygen from reaching it. That’s why you should place your mulch about 12 to 24 inches away from the base of the tree to avoid these results.
  4. DON’T mulch too close to your house. If you’re trying to keep pests away, don’t mulch too close to your house, shed, or other building structures on your property. If the material you use attracts any unwanted pests, you won’t want them to be too close to your house.
  5. DON’T spread unevenly. You have to spread the mulch evenly in order to properly insulate plants and protect the soil.
  6. DON’T get mulch from companies or city-waste departments. You can’t be sure what you’ll find in the material. It may have pesticides or other unwanted pests in them. Homemade materials can sometimes be ineffective, such as grass clippings and fallen leaves. That’s why we recommend getting organic material from a reputable source.

Finally, be sure to maintain the mulch. Keep it fresh. Turn it over frequently and replace with fresh mulch every so often. If you leave it to dry up, it will attract pests and cause more problems.

At The Veron Company, we offer mulching, as well as fertilization, and other landscaping services. We provide services for both residential and commercial properties.

Contact us today to learn more. And keep checking our blog for more spring tips!

The Veron Company is your partner in perfect landscaping. We’re dedicated to providing organic, environmentally-friendly and beautiful landscaping, as well as other services.  The Veron Company, serving Marlborough, Massachusetts and surrounding areas, including Cape Cod since 1982.