Applying Mulch to Fruit Tree

• 1). Clear area beneath tree of all debris in a diameter of 8 feet or to the extent of the branches.
  
  
• 2). Distribute mulch around tree with a shovel beginning 1 to 2 feet away from the trunk.
  
  
• 3). Rake out mulch to spread evenly.
  
  
• 4). Add mulch until a depth of 4 to 6 inches is reached.
  
  
• 5). Add decorative mulch if desired on top the regular mulch and spread in the same way. This is not needed, but can help to hold mulch in place and look good under the tree.
  
  
• 6). Contain the mulch with a rock border, aluminum lawn edging or any suitable material for edging if desired.
  
  

Maintaining Fruit Tree Mulch

• 1). Pull mulch away from tree in autumn when leaves are falling. Wait until end of leafdrop, rake up and remove leaves then replace mulch.
  
  
• 2). Replace mulch and add fresh mulch to accommodate for branch extension and mulch decomposition.
  
  
• 3). Check mulch periodically for presence of rodents such as mice or voles, especially as weather grows cold.
  
  
• 4). Check mulch for mildew, fungus or other signs of disease. If found remove mulch, allow sun to dry area and mulch with new materials
  
  
• 5). Fluff or toss mulch periodically with spading fork to keep air moving in mulch mass.