Tips
We’re pleased to provide you with some simple tips to help keep your lawn and landscape in top condition, based on questions we commonly hear from our customers.
How much mulch is too much mulch?
In addition to creating attractive, orderly landscaping beds, mulching helps trees and bushes in many ways. It keeps roots moist, protects them from extreme temperatures, and keeps out weeds that would compete with the tree for vital nutrients.
However, mulch piled too deep actually harms or kills the tree. Overmulching causes the root system to stay shallow rather than digging deeper into the earth. Also it can deprive the tree’s roots of oxygen and cause water to run off instead of seeping in and down to the roots.
Generally mulch should be no more than three to four inches deep. For a single tree, the circle of mulch should extend out to the tree’s “drip line”, essentially a circle around the tree as far as the branches reach from the trunk.
What is the right time to prune trees?
One thing to remember for all trees is that trees, like people, are subject to stress. Pruning during a drought or during extremely hot weather can “stress” the tree which can affect its general health. Prune only during times of adequate rainfall.
For the deciduous trees (such as oak, sugar maple, beech and ash) that give New England its wonderful Fall foliage season, you can typically prune the tree during late Fall or Winter. However, realize that removing buds can stunt the tree’s growth. Typically the best time to prune flowering trees is after are done flowering for the year. For trees that flower in the summer, you can also safely prune them in the early Spring before they have started their new growth for the year.
Safety note: Never prune trees near electrical or utility wires! Call your town or utility company to deal with these trees.
Can winter salt damage my landscaping?
It’s hard to imagine a New England winter without salt or other melting agents to deal with icy roads and driveways. However, salt and other de-icers can damage concrete! Rock salt is the worst offender, and it is particularly tough on newly poured concrete or concrete that is porous, possibly including pavers and segmented or modular retaining walls. Rock salt will gradually cause chipping and/or discoloration. Some chemicals in other de-icers can have the same effect. The least damaging substitutes are those that contain calcium, magnesium or potassium chloride, but these too can affect your driveway or hardscaping.