Applying mulch to garden beds, flower beds, and around trees ranks alongside compost when it comes to doing right by your landscape. Mulch is spread over the surface of the soil to help retain moisture, nutrients, and enhance soil conditions. Mulch in Connecticut is available in organic and inorganic forms.
* Organic -; Derived from living matter such as wood chips or shredded wood, both hard and soft wood species, pine needles, leaves, cocoa hulls, and compost. An added benefit of organic mulch is that it eventually decomposes and breaks down releasing nutrients into the soil. Depending on the variety used the decomposition rates vary thus affecting the need to replace or replenish. The decomposition aspect is a reason many landscape professionals prefer organic mulches to inorganic varieties.
* Inorganic -; Consists of varieties derived from non-living matter such as lava rock, stones, shredded rubber (tires), and river rock. Because inorganic mulch does not decompose it requires less replenishment and it also does nothing to improve the soil.
Both types of mulches sold by Dunning Sand & Gravel provides benefits such as retaining moisture by slowing down evaporation, especially during spells of drought. A layer of mulch inhibits all but the toughest weeds by blocking or reducing sunlight needed to grow. Mulching prevents soil erosion that can occur during rain storms by reducing the impact with which rain falls on the soil. Mulch maintains an even soil temperature minimizing the impact of fluctuating temperatures, especially in the spring.
In order to reap all these benefits, Mulch in Connecticut must be applied properly, because as with most things, too much is not a good thing. Unfortunately, “volcano mulching” still occurs and not only is it unattractive, it’s harmful to the tree. Mulch volcanoes occur when mulch is excessively piled up around a tree’s trunk. Improper mulching such as volcano mulching stresses the trees bark leaving it susceptible to disease or insect infestation.
To properly mulch a bed or tree, a layer of 2-4 inches is adequate, less if the soil is not well-drained. Mulch should be spread outward to at least the edge of the tree’s crown or slightly beyond. If mulch is already present, adding a light layer as top-dressing is sufficient, and any matted sections should be broken up with a rake.