When mulching around a tree, the mulch should extend from the root ball to what boundary?

When mulching around a tree, the mulch should extend from the root ball to what boundary?

• A. The trunk only
• B. The drip line of the tree
• C. The soil surface near the trunk
• D. Beyond the drip line to a neighboring plant

Answer: (B)

The boundary you mulch to is the drip line—the outer edge of the tree’s canopy projected to the ground. This area marks where most of the tree’s fine absorbing roots are active, so mulching from the root ball out to the drip line protects and benefits the main root zone. It helps conserve soil moisture, moderates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds where the roots are doing most of their work. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot, and avoid covering areas beyond the drip line if it would smother nearby plants or create overly damp conditions. A uniform layer about 2 to 4 inches thick is ideal.

The boundary you mulch to is the drip line—the outer edge of the tree’s canopy projected to the ground. This area marks where most of the tree’s fine absorbing roots are active, so mulching from the root ball out to the drip line protects and benefits the main root zone. It helps conserve soil moisture, moderates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds where the roots are doing most of their work. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot, and avoid covering areas beyond the drip line if it would smother nearby plants or create overly damp conditions. A uniform layer about 2 to 4 inches thick is ideal.