Ryan Rose

The average homeowner doesn’t usually make the connection between mulching and tree health. For most, when people think of “mulching” they associate it with gardening. For any tree you have on your property, mulch is very important.

Mulching Insulates
Mulching is important for the insulation of the soil around your trees. The mulch helps regulate the temperature of the soil around your tree. Here in the Tri-Cities, we can have some extreme temperatures. In the summer, we can reach temperatures easily in the triple digits. In the winter, we sometimes hit some extreme lows.

Mulching Retains Water
The patch of ground directly under the canopy of your tree is an important part of your tree’s health. When you mulch, it helps your tree retain far much more water than without it. With mulching, you are able to control the flow of water to your tree and reduce the overall cost of water you consume.

Mulching Prevents Root Competition
Mulching keeps weeds away from your tree as well as its root structure. Mulching will keep weeds from competing for all the vital nutrients your tree needs.

Mulching Reduces Soil Erosion
Soil erosion can be a serious problem for any tree or vegetation. The top soil surrounding your tree is vital to its health and well being. Here in the Tri-Cities, we have some wind storms that can reach speeds of 70+ mph gusts. This requires the use of a heavier mulch and sometimes the replacement of mulch.

What To Do Now
If you have questions, we are happy to provide all answers to your questions. If you need other services, such as tree removal service, we can do that as well.

Fall is coming and you are going to want to start thinking ahead of how to best care for your trees during the Fall months. Taking proper care of your trees during the Fall will help ensure their survival during the Winter. Most trees will soon be changing colors in preparation for the loss of their leaves. The arrival of fall is a good time to prepare trees for their dormant period.

Beware, the National Arbor Day Foundation does not recommend pruning trees in the fall because disease spores are released during this time of year and may settle into the wounds. However, there is plenty homeowners can do to care for their trees in the fall.

1. Remove dead and fallen trees. The decay can invite insects and disease, affecting nearby healthy trees and possibly your home.
2. Remove any and all hazards. Fall is a great time to remove hazardous branches that could fall and damage your home or cause serious bodily harm.  When the wind storms pick up in the Spring, you’ll be ahead of the game.
3. Remove random seedlings. Over the past several months, a seedling or two may have sprouted next to your home, perhaps aided by the water from your gutters. It’s best to remove the seedlings so their roots don’t burrow into your foundation, causing problems with your home’s stability.
4. Spray for insects. Fall is a good time to prevent vermin and insects from burrowing further into a tree, undermining its health and stability.
5. Wrap trees. Without the cover of leaves, some trees may get winter sun scald, which can damage the bark enough that it may fall off. To prevent sun scald, cover younger trees with a paper tree wrap. Older trees close to the road should be wrapped in burlap to protect them from road salt sprays.
6. Fertilize. Fall is a good time to feed your trees. You may want to test the soil first to ensure you give the trees the nutrients and pH they need.
7. Pull away mulch. There should be a 6-inch space between your tree and the mulch to discourage fungus growth.

What To Do Now

Now, if you do not feel comfortable or simply don’t have the proper tools to do any of this pruning, we are more than happy to do any of this pruning for you. Also, if you have multiple trees to prune or just don’t have the time to do it, we are here for you. We can handle all of your tree pruning needs and services in the Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Richland, Pasco) and even West Richland. We look forward to being your preferred tree maintenance provider.