Page 3 of the Mulch Around Trees topic archive. Return to page one for the full topic guide.
For a causes-and-fixes approach, check soil moisture, recent weather, drainage and sun exposure, then change only one part of the care routine at a time. The goal is to confirm the next decision for mulch is piled against.
For this “what to check first” angle, check soil moisture, recent weather, drainage and sun exposure, then change only one part of the care routine at a time. The goal is to confirm the next decision for mulch is piled.
A broad 2–4 inch layer is a common practical range for many landscapes, but keep mulch pulled back from direct contact with the trunk and avoid piling a volcano around the tree base.