Mulching is one of the most important things you can do for your trees. Mid- to late spring and fall are the best times to put down mulch. You can learn more from the Morton Arboretum or the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Basics to remember are 3 – 4 inches of healthy (not dyed) mulch kept away from the trunk of the tree. You want more of a “donut” of mulch and not a “volcano” at the base of the tree. If your neighbors have created a “volcano” of mulch around their trees, politely let them know that this actually damages their trees. If your yard service makes this mistake, be sure to contact them about it!
