The practice of using tree mulch to deposit nutrients and keep soils moist has been around for centuries. And over the years not much has changed. While new colours and materials have been introduced to offer a different aesthetic, the basics are still the same. And so our tree mulching service remains true to its roots.
What is the best time of year to hire a tree mulching service?
While mulch can be spread at any time of year, we recommend our clients lay their mulch in early spring. This allows for new perennials to carve their own path through the mulch and not require you to delicately spread it around fragile new stalks.
Spring is also an ideal time to have your new trees pruned or old ones removed. TreeLink offers on-site tree mulching services so it saves you from having to buy mulch at the store and allows you to get everything done in one fell swoop.
And if you don’t have trees but you need mulch, TreeLink will deliver 6, 12 or 18 cubic metres anywhere within the greater Sydney area for free.
What are the benefits?
Once laid, organic tree mulch provides benefits year-round, offering protection and nourishment to a wide variety of plant species. In the winter, mulch acts as an insulator and protects roots from the cold and in the summer, it helps prevent the soil temperature from creeping up too high.
It does this all while improving the texture and composition of the soil and preventing weeds from taking root, which is why so many people are fans of organic tree mulch.
Proper application is key
To achieve the full benefits, mulch needs to be around 2-4 inches deep. This depth stifles weed growth but isn’t overbearing to the plants. It can be tempting to want to throw new mulch on top of an old layer but this can end up causing rot which will add more work in the end. If you’re ever unsure, consult one of our expert arborists and they will happily walk you through the process.
Can I colour my tree mulch?
You can now get mulch in a variety of different colours, however, we generally recommend natural mulch over dyed mulch. This is because dye doesn’t do anything to improve the quality of the mulch, to the contrary, many times dye is used to cover up the fact that it is poor quality mulch. Dye simply provides a polished look, which can fade quickly and if it is placed near brickwork or pavement you could end up with stains.
Are there alternatives to organic tree mulch?
Mulch can be created from a wide variety of materials including:
- Wood,
- Straw,
- Grass,
- Rocks,
- And even cardboard.
But the reason so many people prefer organic tree mulch is that it has naturally occurring properties which prevent weed growth and soil erosion as well as regulate temperature. Whereas rock mulch can heat up in the summer months and straw oftentimes contains weed seeds. Rock mulch can be great for specific gardens such as cactus but no other material delivers the same level of benefits to as many different gardens as organic mulch from a tree mulching service.
