Tree Talk

Too "Mulch" of a Good Thing

Written by Admin | 28/07/25 5:04 PM
Mulching is one of the simplest and most effective ways to care for your trees. When done correctly, it helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve overall soil health. 

Too"mulch"of a good thing?

Too much mulch, or improper application, can cause serious issues like root rot, insect infestations, and poor hydration.

In this article, we’ll share expert mulching tips and best practices to ensure your trees thrive. Whether you’re prepping for winter or enhancing your garden year-round, these guidelines will help you avoid common mulching mistakes.

Not all mulch is created equal. Mulch includes any material used to cover soil, while wood chips are coarser and often made from freshly chipped trees. Wood chips work well for established trees but may not suit young plants or gardens needing finer textures.

Avoid dyed mulches from garden supply stores. These often contain recycled wood from pallets or treated lumber, which can introduce harmful chemicals. The dyes can also leach into the soil, affecting plant health. Opt for organic, untreated mulch or composted wood chips for safer, more effective results.

Mulching in 3-Simple-Steps

 (Below) Improper vs. Proper Mulching Technique

  

Mulching: 3 mistakes to avoid

  1. Over-Mulching: Using more than 4" inches (10 cm) of mulch  can suffocate the root collar and or lead to poor aeration in the soil.
  2. Improper Placement: Mulch that touches the main portion of the tree trunk or root flare can create a breeding ground for pests and fungi.
  3. Ignoring Existing Layers: Failing to rake or remove old mulch can result in compaction and reduced soil oxygen. Putting  down landscaping fabric on dry soil and piling mulch on top may exacerbate soils that have become hydrophobic because water runs off the fabric and is unable to penetrate the dry substrate.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll ensure your trees get the full benefits of mulching without the downsides.

 

At Arbutus Tree Service, we recommend mulching as a key component of tree care. Whether you’re maintaining your landscape year-round or getting ready for winter, proper mulching can help your trees thrive in Vancouver’s unique climate.

If you have questions about mulching or tree care, our experts are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our tree care services.

For more on this topic, check out Proper Mulch Technique (pdf guide) from Trees are Good.
View full post