Common Mulching Mistakes to Avoid

Even if your math is perfect, spreading mulch incorrectly can waste money and harm plants.

• Volcano mulching: Piling mulch against tree trunks causes rot and pest problems.
• Too thin: Anything less than 2″ won’t stop weeds.
• Too thick: More than 4″ can suffocate roots and block water.
• Wrong mulch type: Using dyed mulch near edible plants can leach chemicals into the soil.

Tips for Calculating Mulch Needs Accurately

• Round up: Always buy a little extra to account for settling and miscalculations.
• Account for settling: Fresh mulch can compress by 5–10% within weeks.
• Choose depth wisely:
  • 2″ for decorative beds
  • 3–4″ for weed suppression and moisture retention