Beware of 'Volcano Mulching': A Common Mistake Harming Your Trees

A recent online video has highlighted a common, yet detrimental, landscaping practice known as 'volcano mulching.' The video, uploaded by user Daniel R. Wasson, showcases a tree with a large, cone-shaped mound of mulch piled high against its trunk. The narrator in the video explicitly warns viewers, stating, 'This is how you don't mulch. Look at this height on that. It's like volcano mulching. Don't do this to your trees.' This practice, where mulch is piled excessively high against the tree trunk, can trap moisture against the bark, leading to rot, pest infestations, and root suffocation. Experts generally recommend spreading mulch in a thin, even layer, keeping it a few inches away from the tree's base to allow the trunk to breathe and prevent moisture buildup. The video serves as a timely reminder for homeowners and landscapers alike to adopt proper mulching techniques to ensure the health and longevity of their trees.

The Cool Down

one month ago

Landscaper issues warning after spotting harmful mistake in neighborhood: 'That…

One TikTok creator is warning against volcano mulching, a harmful practice that many homeowners and landscapers mistakenly believe is helpful.