Mulch piled in a big mound around the lower trunk of a tree is commonly referred to as a "mulch volcano." This is not a good practice! It can harm the health of trees over time.

Instead, place mulch in a thin ring around the base of the tree over the roots. Mulch should be no more than 3-4 inches deep and it should not touch the trunk. Mulch helps to maintain even moisture in the soil for the roots; the trunk shouldn't be in constant moisture, or it can develop problems with rot and girdling roots.

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