Maintaining the health of your trees involves understanding the balance between too much, too little, and just the right amount of care.

Mulching is an essential practice for tree care, but it's important to apply it properly. When mulch is piled too high and comes into contact with the tree trunk, it can lead to serious issues.

Let’s explore the potential problems caused by excessive mulching around trees.

When Does Mulching Become Harmful?

Mulch offers numerous benefits for trees when applied correctly. It helps reduce weeds, retains moisture, and improves soil quality, all of which contribute to a tree’s overall health.

However, too much mulch can be detrimental. If you pile mulch too high against the tree’s trunk—a practice often referred to as “volcano mulching”—it can lead to decay and other problems.

The Dangers of Excessive Mulching Around Trees

When mulch is applied too thickly and too close to the trunk, it creates two primary issues that can gradually harm your tree:

Issue 1: Mulch Smothers Tree Roots

Consequence: In their quest for air, roots might begin growing upwards through the mulch. This can lead to girdling, where roots wrap around the trunk, ultimately choking the tree by restricting its water supply.

Issue 2: Excess Moisture Accumulation

Consequence: The trapped moisture between the mulch and the trunk can create an ideal environment for wood decay diseases, including fungal infections. Additionally, the degrading bark at the tree’s base can compromise the tree’s stability.

Fortunately, these problems are preventable with the correct mulching techniques.