Why Mulching Under Trees Matters: The Benefits of Fresh Tree Mulch

Written By Indigo Rowe

What Is Mulch and Why Is It Important?

If you’re anything like us, you want healthy, happy plants and a tidy looking backyard with minimal effort. Let mulch do some of the work so you can spend time doing the things you love, with the people that matter most. If you’ve ever admired a healthy, vibrant tree surrounded by a neat circle of mulch, you’ve witnessed a simple yet powerful practice in tree care. Mulching, when done right, is one of the easiest ways to boost the health of your trees while improving the overall look of your garden.

At Rowe Tree Care, we often get questions about why we recommend mulching and what it actually does for trees. In this article, we’ll dive into the many benefits of fresh tree mulch, explore how it works, and share some expert tips for getting the most out of your mulching efforts.

1. Improving Soil Health

Healthy trees start with healthy soil. One of the most significant benefits of mulch is its ability to enhance the soil beneath your trees.

  • Adds Organic Matter
    Fresh tree mulch, particularly when made from natural wood chip, gradually breaks down over time, releasing organic matter into the soil. This process enriches the soil with essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which your trees rely on for healthy growth.

  • Encourages Beneficial Microbial Activity
    The decomposition of mulch promotes a thriving ecosystem of beneficial microorganisms. Fungi, bacteria, and earthworms flourish in mulched areas, breaking down organic matter further and improving the soil’s structure. This creates a loose, aerated soil that allows tree roots to access water, nutrients, and oxygen more easily.

  • Improves Soil Structure
    Mulch prevents soil from becoming compacted, which is especially important in areas where trees are surrounded by foot traffic or heavy garden equipment. Looser soil encourages deeper root growth, leading to stronger, more resilient trees.

2. Conserving Moisture

Water is essential for tree health, and in Marlborough’s climate, where summers can be dry, conserving moisture is critical.

  • Reduces Evaporation
    A layer of mulch acts as a natural barrier, trapping moisture in the soil and preventing it from evaporating too quickly. This is especially beneficial during the hot, dry months when trees are most vulnerable to water stress.

  • Minimizes the Need for Frequent Watering
    Who has time for nightly watering by hand when the kids are hanging off your arms demanding your time on the trampoline? By keeping the soil consistently moist, mulch can reduce the amount of watering your trees need, saving you time and lowering your water usage. This is not only good for your garden but also for the environment.

3. Regulating Soil Temperature

Rain, then heat, then humidity, then a cold blast.. the weather is unusual at the moment. Extreme temperature fluctuations (this Summer is a prime example of this!) can be tough on tree roots, but mulch helps maintain a stable environment.

  • Protects Roots from Overheating
    In the summer, the sun can heat bare soil to high temperatures, potentially damaging shallow roots. Mulch provides insulation, keeping the soil cool and protecting your tree’s root system.

  • Prevents Frost Damage in Winter
    In colder months, mulch acts as a blanket, shielding roots from freezing temperatures and sudden frost. This is especially important for young or newly planted trees that are more susceptible to frost damage.

4. Weed Suppression

We love planting, weeding - yeah, not so much. Weeds compete with trees for vital nutrients, water, and space. Mulching is a simple and effective way to keep weeds under control.

  • Blocks Sunlight
    A thick layer of mulch prevents weeds from germinating by blocking their access to sunlight. Without light, weed seeds struggle to sprout, keeping your tree’s surroundings clear.

  • Reduces Maintenance
    With fewer weeds to pull, you’ll spend less time weeding and more time enjoying your garden, your kids, your life. Plus, fewer weeds mean less competition for the resources your trees need to thrive.

5. Preventing Soil Erosion

Soil erosion can be a significant problem in areas with strong winds or heavy rain, particularly on slopes or exposed landscapes common in parts of Marlborough.

  • Stabilizes the Soil
    Mulch helps anchor the soil in place, reducing the impact of heavy rain and wind. This is particularly valuable on sloped areas where soil tends to wash away more easily.

  • Prevents Nutrient Loss
    When topsoil erodes, it takes essential nutrients with it. By protecting the soil surface, mulch ensures that these nutrients remain in place, ready to nourish your trees.

6. Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal

While the health benefits of mulch are undeniable, its ability to enhance the appearance of your garden is equally compelling.

  • Creates a Polished Look
    A well-mulched tree not only looks tidy but also gives your entire garden a more cohesive and professional appearance. Fresh tree mulch, with its natural tones, blends seamlessly with the landscape.

  • Defines Spaces
    Mulching around trees helps define their space within your garden, creating visual interest and highlighting them as key features in your landscape design.

  • Customizable Options
    Whether you prefer the rustic look of wood chips or the fine texture of shredded bark, there are plenty of mulching materials to suit your aesthetic preferences.

7. Supporting Tree Health in the Long Term

Mulching is an investment in your tree’s long-term health. By improving soil conditions, conserving water, and protecting roots, mulch provides the foundation for trees to thrive for years to come. Strong, healthy trees are less susceptible to pests, diseases, and environmental stressors, reducing the need for costly interventions later.

8. Common Mulching Mistakes to Avoid

While mulching is highly beneficial, improper application can cause more harm than good.

  • Volcano Mulching
    One of the most common mistakes is piling mulch high around the tree trunk in a “volcano” shape. This traps moisture against the trunk, creating a breeding ground for pests and diseases. Instead, spread mulch in a doughnut shape, leaving space around the base of the tree.

  • Using Too Much or Too Little
    A mulch layer that’s too thin won’t provide enough benefits, while too much mulch can suffocate the roots and prevent water from penetrating the soil. Aim for a layer that’s 5-10 cm thick.

  • Using the Wrong Material
    Avoid using materials that can become compacted or hold too much water, such as grass clippings or fine sawdust. Fresh tree mulch made from wood chips or bark is ideal, as it breaks down slowly and provides lasting benefits.

9. Why Choose Fresh Tree Mulch?

At Rowe Tree Care, we recommend fresh tree mulch because of its many advantages over synthetic or processed alternatives.

  • Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
    Fresh tree mulch is a natural byproduct of tree pruning and removal, making it an environmentally friendly choice. It reduces waste and supports a circular approach to tree care.

  • Slow Decomposition
    Unlike some processed mulches, fresh tree mulch breaks down gradually, providing long-term benefits without needing frequent replacement.

  • Cost-Effective
    Fresh tree mulch is often more affordable than commercially bagged options, especially if sourced locally.

Trust Rowe Tree Care for Your Mulching Needs

Mulching is a simple yet powerful way to care for your trees, offering a wide range of benefits that support their health, protect the soil, and enhance the beauty of your garden. At Rowe Tree Care, we’re passionate about helping trees thrive in Marlborough’s unique environment, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Whether you need assistance with tree care, or a fresh supply of tree mulch, our team is ready to help. Contact us today, and let us help you create a healthier, more beautiful garden.

Indigo Rowe