Monthly Tip

What’s happening under a tree can have a big impact on its success. Having a tree surrounded by a lawn is never ideal, mostly because of different watering needs. Grass needs frequent shallow watering, perhaps two or three times per week, while trees need infrequent deep watering, perhaps once a month. A tree with grass near its trunk can be injured by lawn mowers and weed trimmers, which then makes it easier for insects or diseases to enter the tree. Water from sprinklers can also damage the bark. Mulch under the canopy helps conserve moisture and reduce weed germination. Possible mulch materials are wood chips spread four to six inches thick or fallen leaves from a disease-free tree. Neither mulch, flowers, nor bushes should be close to the trunk because they can hold moisture against the trunk and cause crown rot, resulting in the slow death of the tree.

More information: Landscape Trees