A common mulching mistake is packing mulch high up against trunks, which can rot the bark. This practice is called “volcano mulching.”

Mulching madness

You can overdo it or underdo it with mulch, which is the coarse wood or organic matter used on soil surfaces to discourage weeds and retain soil moisture.

Too much mulch can cause the same problems as planting too deeply. Too little won’t stop weeds or retain moisture very well.

Especially be careful not to pack mulch up against the stems and trunks of plants. That can rot the stems and bark and possibly kill the plants.

Two to three inches of organic mulch (i.e. bark mulch, chopped leaves, pine straw, shredded hardwood) is ideal around trees and shrubs. One to 2 inches is fine around flowers.

Unsuitable sites

Plants have their own particular site preferences, especially when it comes to light and soil moisture. Check with trusted local experts, such as Extension educators and local garden centers, as to best sites.

As for plants that are struggling, don’t be afraid to move them — the sooner the better. Many “green-thumb” gardeners will tell you they’ve moved every plant in their yard a minimum of three times before they got it right.