Mulch to the Rescue

to the Rescue!

BY MARC DUNIA

California is facing another drought emergency, and 2021 will be a particularly challenging year for landscapes and trees. With water restrictions looming throughout the state, landscapers, arborists, and property managers will need to be prepared for many changes in the way they manage their properties. Finding economical ways to reduce water usage and promote tree and plant health will be a top priority for everyone.

PROTECT SOILS

Soils are the foundation of vulnerable root systems. Having healthy soil is the best defense against poor environmental conditions such as drought, hot dry winds, and sudden changes in the environment. Root systems need to be protected from excessive heat, evaporation, and soil compaction. Adding mulch is the easiest and least expensive way to combat these plant stressors and protect root systems.

BENEFITS OF MULCH

Mulch is cost-effective and good for the soil. Adding three to six inches of an organic-based product can reduce watering needs by more than 25%. When mulch is added to a landscape, trees and plants greatly benefit. Watering needs are reduced. Microbial and biological activity are increased. Plant growth and development flourish. Other benefits of mulch include reduced weed control, a pleasing appearance, and a nice natural smell.

Another benefit of mulch is that it helps to maintain soil moisture, which keeps the plant material hydrated and makes it less prone to damage in the event of a fire. (Incorporating rock or gravel around buildings and fence perimeters can also reduce fire risk.) Mulch provides a layer of insulation that protects roots from excessive heat.

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Mulch will also help reduce erosion and water runoff. Once a tree or an area of landscape is mulched, water that is added will stay in place much better, with less evaporation. Medium-textured mulches are best for retaining moisture, so look for batches with one- to three-inch pieces. Large bark textures are too porous and fail to retain moisture, while fine-textured material packs down too much and prevents water from getting to the root systems.

TYPES OF MULCH

There are many types of mulch that are beneficial and readily available. Products that contain high amounts of organic and biodegradable material are highly recommended. Many properties in the Bay Area have mulch drop locations, and tree companies typically provide free processed arbor-mulch that can be used as needed to help reduce watering on beautification projects.

Arbor-mulch primarily contains a combination of chipped wood, bark, leaves, and twigs. These enhance the soil. There is also an assortment of decorative barks available that can enhance the look of a landscape. However, since bark mulch does not biodegrade as fast as arbor-mulch, it will be less beneficial for building a healthy soil.

It is important to note that not all mulches are suited for tree and plant enhancement. Some have excessive amounts of leaves, twigs, or even seeds. Some mulches are better than others, depending on the situation. Walnut mulches are good for preventing weeds but can also inhibit root development if placed around plants or trees. Pine tree mulches should not be used around certain pine tree species without being allowed to fully decompose first to kill harmful microbes. Also, the pine smell can attract beetles to a living tree and increase the possibility of beetle infestations.

Unattractive mulches can often be aesthetically enhanced by raking and removing the unsightly portions of the load. There is no need to be alarmed if the load is not perfect; additional product can always be placed on top of the original mulch.

Finally, it is important not to over-mulch. Mulch beds should not be deeper than seven inches. Three inches is normal in most scenarios, but this can vary depending on many factors, including the needs of the plants, the availability of material, and one’s budget.

LANDSCAPES ARE UNIQUE

It is important to note that not all landscape situations are the same, and some difficult choices may need to be made depending on water restrictions in the area. It is important to research the upcoming watering restrictions in a community. In many areas,

MULCH HELPS TREES IN DROUGHT

Trees in irrigated lawn areas will need special attention this year. One of the biggest stressors for trees is when there is a drastic change in irrigation patterns. When a tree is in an area that is regularly watered, it becomes acclimated to that watering frequency. Even if the tree is considered droughttolerant, it will still be acclimated to the watering frequency of the lawn.

The UC Extension Service in the hot region of Yuba County suggests adding as much as five to six inches of mulch around the tree’s dripline during a period of watering disruptions. Also, it is important to avoid placing mulch in contact with the tree trunk or main stem. It is recommended that trees with mulch be irrigated once a month. Soil conditions should be regularly monitored during these challenging times.

PRACTICAL HELP FOR TREE HEALTH

Trees are a substantial contributor to HOA community property values and should be protected and properly cared for in periods of drought. According to Management Information Services/ ICMA, (International City/County Management Association), trees can add as much as 20% to property values. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees planted along streets in Portland, Oregon, increased home values by an average of $7,020 each. Additionally, according to the USDA Forest Service, properly placed trees around a building can reduce air conditioning costs by up to 30% and heating costs by 20%–50%.

A COMMUNITY TREE HEALTH REPORT

Trees are a particularly important part of the community aesthetic and property values. To protect this asset, the HOA board can request a monthly report from its landscape contractor on the health of the trees. This is simple. It is easy to do and can emphasize the importance of tree management to the landscaper and crew. A regular report can help the board know when an arborist may be needed.

A certified arborist is an expert in tree care trained to manage a community’s trees. Arborists will address problems reported in the regular landscaper tree reports and can professionally help to establish and maintain trees in the community.

Although the need for an arborist may not be acute, it is a good idea to develop a relationship with one, especially during a drought when an expert opinion can be particularly valuable in keeping the canopy healthy. It is suggested that an HOA invite one or more arborists onto the property from time to time to give a report on the condition of the trees and a proposal for tree care. An arborist will usually do this at no cost as part of their business development. It is suggested that three proposals from different companies be requested and reviewed by the landscape committee or board. The reports and proposals should be compared for consistency. The findings should be significantly the same, but if not, it is important to ask clarifying questions before deciding on next steps.

CIRCLE OF LIFE

Experts recommend that fallen leaf debris remain below the tree. While it is not always possible, retaining leaves and small debris allows for decomposition that releases important nutrients into the soil. This contributes to the building of healthy soils, ecosystem balance, and improved plant health. Mulch can be placed on top of existing leaf and twig debris, since the debris has already begun the decomposition process and is better left alone. It is important to maintain a healthy ecosystem and not rake the forest unless absolutely necessary.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Landscapers, biologists, master gardeners, certified arborists, and UC Extension professors recommend utilizing the benefits of mulch to help during times of environmental stress. As California navigates through this drought emergency, mulch should be used to economically reduce water usage and promote the overall health of landscapes. Trees will require special attention during the drought. To protect the interests of HOA communities, it is important to heed expert advice. Everyone wins and the environment is better for it.

Marc Dunia has been in the tree care business for more than 24 years. He became an ISA Certified Arborist in 1997 (#WE-3975-1). Marc currently works for Cagwin & Dorward Landscape Company in Petaluma, which serves the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sacramento Metropolitan markets. At an early age Marc realized that he loved forests and the outdoors. He joined the California Conservation Corps and then was hired on a helitack crew based in Riverside to fight wildfires. He is a strong proponent of education and spends much of his time consulting and educating HOA boards.

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