Landscaping Updates
Avoid Volcano Mulching Around Trees
When applying mulch around trees, proper placement is essential for maintaining tree health. One common landscaping mistake is“ volcano mulching,” which occurs when mulch is piled high against the trunk of a tree, creating a volcano-like shape.
While mulch provides many benefits such as retaining soil moisture, reducing weeds, and regulating soil temperature, it should never be piled against the tree trunk. Excess mulch around the base of a tree can trap moisture against the bark, leading to rot, fungal diseases, insect infestations, and the development of girdling roots that can eventually strangle the tree.
Instead, apply mulch in a flat, donut-shaped ring around the tree, approximately 2 – 4 inches deep, while leaving several inches of space between the mulch and the trunk. This allows the tree’ s root system to benefit from the mulch while keeping the trunk dry and healthy.
Remember: Mulch the roots, not the trunk! Proper mulching helps trees thrive and can significantly extend their lifespan.
Residential Street Tree Pruning Update for July
Neighborhoods scheduled for July are Creekshire, Lakefield, Plantation Colony, and Woodstream.
The pruning will consist of raising the canopy of street trees to provide clearance that meets city requirements. Limbs that are removed will be chipped and hauled away from the property on the same day the pruning takes place. Street trees are those located in the area between the sidewalk and the street; yard trees are not included in this service. As the trees are a living organism and are constantly growing, additional pruning may need to be done between visits. This is the responsibility of the homeowner as well as any damaged limbs that may need to be removed.
If you wish to continue to maintain your own street trees, you may do so by using the form located on our website to notify FCCSA no later than two weeks prior to the beginning of the month of your neighborhood’ s scheduled pruning. If you opt out of the program and later choose to join, your street trees will not be pruned until the next scheduled pruning of your neighborhood. You will need to inform FCCSA in writing if you choose to opt back into the program. Also, if you choose to maintain your own street trees and receive a violation notice from the City or from FCCSA, you will be responsible for bringing your trees into compliance and for any fines incurred for failure to do so.
For more information about the program, please go to our website at www. firstcolony. org. You may also contact Bill Grantham at 281-634-9568 or e-mail at landscape @ firstcolony. org.
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