Q&A - Are mulch volcanoes bad for trees?
Question:
At my workplace, the landscapers made tree volcanoes around some of our trees. I thought these were bad for the trees? If they are, why is this practice being used? And, if it is bad, what can be done to fix the problem with minimal damage to the tree?
Answer:
Mulch volcanos harm trees. The mulch keeps the bark moist which causes the bark to start to rot. When the bark starts to rot, it will allow diseases and insects into the tree. Also, voles can tunnel in the mulch and girdle the tree while hidden. Too much mulch also allows the tree roots to grow into the mulch looking for air. To fix this problem spread the mulch out, ideally to the dripline. The area right around the trunk should be free from mulch.
Related Resources:
Mulch
Mulches
Mulching
At my workplace, the landscapers made tree volcanoes around some of our trees. I thought these were bad for the trees? If they are, why is this practice being used? And, if it is bad, what can be done to fix the problem with minimal damage to the tree?
Answer:
Mulch volcanos harm trees. The mulch keeps the bark moist which causes the bark to start to rot. When the bark starts to rot, it will allow diseases and insects into the tree. Also, voles can tunnel in the mulch and girdle the tree while hidden. Too much mulch also allows the tree roots to grow into the mulch looking for air. To fix this problem spread the mulch out, ideally to the dripline. The area right around the trunk should be free from mulch.
Related Resources:
Mulch
Mulches
Mulching