Custom-blended mulch.

Almost everyone is familiar with the practice of applying mulch to shrub beds and around trees; it’s attractive and helps control weeds.

But there are many benefits to mulching. A properly mulched surface creates favorable changes in soil structure, drainage and water, oxygen and temperature rates. Improved soil conditions lead to healthy root systems. In fact, root growth can be doubled in mulched soils. The interaction of these factors leads to vigorous, healthy and beautiful trees.

Our arborists have made many observations about the use and abuse of mulches. One very common problem is over-mulching. Never apply more than four-inches of mulch. The fine texture of many bark mulches can actually reduce water and oxygen to the root system. If used in excess, bark mulch can act like a sponge, absorbing and holding water.

This causes surface rooting which makes plants susceptible to both drought and cold temperatures. Further, we have seen bark mulches increasing soil acidity (lowering pH) which can reduce the activity of beneficial organisms. For example, rarely are earthworms found in soil under bark mulch, and it also reduces the population of beneficial fungi. Low soil pH may also make certain soil nutrients unavailable to the plants.

Conversely, we have observed many different and positive improvements with mulches derived from woodchips. That is, mulch produced from limbs, twigs, and leaves; not just bark. The coarse structure of wood chips allows for greater air and water percolation than more fine- textured mulches. Wood chip mulches also decompose faster rate than bark mulch, releasing nutrients for plant growth and improving soil quality. Earthworm and fungal activity also increases, improving the effectiveness of root systems.

Hartney Greymont's 'Yard Life' mulch. 'Yard Life' mulch is created from carefully screened tree residue byproducts. Research has shown that this type of mulch closely matches the organic layer of the forest floor, creating a richer rooting environment for trees and shrubs. 'Yard Life' also supports our commitment to preserving the environment through recycling the byproducts of our labor.

'Yard Life' mulch is used on all Hartney Greymont planting, installation, and preservation projects. Bark-based mulches are available on request.