Mulching is a great way to give your soil key nourishment for healthy plant life. At the same time, mulching protects your trees and landscape in myriad ways. In fact, mulch acts as a shield from rain and irrigation which prevents soil compaction and erosion. As the mulch breaks down over time, it releases organic material that helps detoxify pesticides that may be used in your landscape. And lastly, mulch helps prevent weed germination by blocking out sunlight! 

So, whether spreading mulch in flower beds or around tree trunks, apply liberally. Additionally, be sure to cover entire areas that contain roots. However, avoid the pile up of mulch against the trunks of trees and vegetation as this excess moisture leads to rot. Depending on mulch material and budget, you will want to spread 2-6 inches of mulch. Thicker layers should be applied when dealing with courser mulches or mulching around trees and plants/shrubs. However, thinner layers should always be used to cover vegetable and flower beds to prevent mulch from piling directly against vegetation.