Chip Drop
When it comes to keeping your landscape thriving, few things are as simple and effective as arborist mulch. Often overlooked, this organic material is not just a byproduct of tree maintenance—it’s a powerhouse for improving soil health and supporting plant growth.
What is Arborist Mulch?
Arborist mulch is made from wood chips, bark, and leaves generated during tree pruning and removal. Unlike commercial mulches that are often dyed and heavily processed, arborist mulch is a natural, untreated product, full of organic goodness that benefits your trees and plants.
Why Arborist Mulch is a Game-Changer
1. Nutrient Recycling
Think of arborist mulch as nature’s way of giving back. As it breaks down, it releases nutrients into the soil, enriching it and mimicking the forest floor ecosystem. This natural recycling supports healthy root growth and soil fertility.
2. Moisture Retention
A layer of mulch acts like a sponge, retaining moisture in the soil and reducing the need for frequent watering. This is especially important for trees, as consistent moisture levels help them thrive, even during dry spells.
3. Temperature Regulation
Just as a blanket keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer, arborist mulch helps regulate soil temperatures. It protects roots from extreme heat in summer and insulates them during winter freezes.
4. Weed Control
By creating a barrier over the soil, arborist mulch blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, reducing their ability to sprout. This means less time spent pulling weeds and more time enjoying your landscape.
5. Improved Soil Structure
As the mulch decomposes, it feeds beneficial microbes and fungi, enhancing soil structure and creating an environment where roots can grow freely. It also reduces soil compaction, a common issue in urban and suburban landscapes.
6. Eco-Friendly
Arborist mulch is a sustainable choice. It repurposes what would otherwise go to waste, reducing landfill use and giving new life to materials from necessary tree work.
Best Practices for Using Arborist Mulch
• Depth: Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around trees and plants. Too little won’t offer enough benefits, and too much can lead to moisture issues.
• Placement: Keep the mulch a few inches away from the tree trunk or plant base to prevent rot and pest problems.
• Replenishment: Arborist mulch breaks down over time, so check annually and add more as needed to maintain a consistent layer.
The Edmonds Approach
At Edmonds Tree & Landscape Service, we believe in using arborist mulch not just because it’s environmentally friendly, but because it works. Whether you’re caring for a newly planted tree or revitalizing an older one, arborist mulch can make a noticeable difference in tree health and soil vitality.
