Why Mulching and Soil Care Are Part of Tree Health Services

What Is Soil Care?

Although some may argue that mulching is part of soil care, it is not entirely false. According to certified arborists and industry experts, soil care encompasses sustainable practices that maintain, restore, and improve the soil’s overall health and fertility. This often revolves around preventing nutrient depletion, degradation, and erosion to support plant growth and a healthy ecosystem. Some of the key soil care methods include organic fertilization, crop rotation, and tillage conservation, which build better soil structure and support a thriving ecosystem for microorganisms.

The Importance of Mulching

Now that you know what mulching is, let’s explore the reasons it is a crucial part of tree health to ensure you maintain a lush backyard for years.

Adds Organic Matter to the Soil

Mulch will decompose over time, adding organic matter and improving the quality of the soil. This breakdown of organic material helps improve aeration and drainage, which are essential for tree health. However, excessive mulching can prevent oxygen and water from reaching the roots, causing decay and premature tree removal.

Conserves Water

Another reason for homeowners to prioritize mulching when it comes to tree health is water preservation. This is particularly important during the scorching summer months when roots struggle to access water in the soil. Coupled with deep watering, mulching can keep your greenery in top shape all year-round. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, hire a professional tree care company to test your soil and recommend the best mulch material for your home.

Provides Food for Beneficial Insects and Spiders

As mentioned, mulching involves adding organic material like leaves and wood chips on top of the soil. These materials decompose and provide food to beneficial insects and spiders that keep trees healthy and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

The Benefits of Soil Care

While mulching offers numerous advantages in tree health, soil care is also essential to keep your backyard aesthetically appealing and thriving.

Physical Support

Professional soil care is crucial to provide the anchorage needed for healthy root development and tree growth. This gives you peace of mind, knowing your trees are sturdy during adverse weather and won’t topple over. In addition, well-aerated soil allows for a smooth exchange of gases, improving metabolism and overall tree health.

Nutrient Cycling and Absorption

Soil is the primary source of essential minerals and nutrients for plants. By adding organic matter regularly, you ensure roots can access vital nutrients and support the local ecosystem of microorganisms. Not to mention, trees release sugars into the soil, providing nourishment for microorganisms that, in turn, provide specific minerals. This creates a mutually beneficial relationship that improves soil quality.

Contact us at Arbor & Acre to learn more about effective tree care strategies that can improve the health and beauty of your outdoor spaces. As a trusted tree care company, you can count on us to tailor solutions that align with your needs and preferences.