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Am I mulching too deep?
A common dilemma plaguing first-time mulchers occurs when too much material is applied around a plant.
Problem: Applying a layer of mulch that is too thick can suffocate the roots by stopping free air,
water and fertilizer exchange and by compacting soil.
Symptoms: Plant growth declines, leaves do not grow to a mature size
Solution: Avoid layering mulch thicker than 3-4 inches deep. If you feel you have mulched too deep and
are concerned about a plant, remove some of the excess mulch.
Should the mulch touch the trunk?
Proper application of mulch is an important factor in protecting your plants.
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Problem: Mulch that touches the trunk of a tree encourages a high moisture environment that can harm plants.
Symptoms: Rotting bark, stem or trunk suggesting plant disease; increased presence of insects and other pests
Solution: Do not let mulch touch the trunk of the tree. Leave a few inches (see photo) between trunk and mulch.
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What is a mulch volcano?
Creating a mulch volcano, or piling too much material near the trunk (see photo), is a common problem among
inexperienced mulchers.
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Problem: Too much mulch near the trunk can suffocate the roots, compact the soil and block water and
fertilizer penetration into the soil.
Symptoms: Mulch piled up on trunk; cankers (open wounds) on lower trunk
Solution: Keep mulch level around tree, and do not let mulch touch tree trunk.
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How do I know if my mulch is good?
If correctly applied mulch seems to be doing more harm than good, the problem may be with the mulch itself.
Problem: While freshly chipped mulch may be easy to come by, it has the potential to cause problems for plants.
Symptoms: Acidic soil, excessive heat generation, mulch decomposition robbing plant of necessary nitrogen
Solution: Make sure that freshly chipped mulch has composted for at least 2-4 weeks.
DNR Contact
Matt McDonald
(515) 281-8150
Matt.Mcdonald@dnr.state.ia.us
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