Clear away grass, weeds, and debris from the base of the tree
Leave a mulch-free space around the trunk
Spread mulch in a wide, even layer around the tree
Keep mulch 2 to 4 inches deep
Extend mulch out to the tree’s drip line if possible
Use coarse, organic mulch such as wood chips or bark
Avoid piling mulch against the trunk
Shape the mulch into a flat ring or a shallow donut, not a volcano
Replenish mulch as it breaks down
Check mulch regularly and keep it pulled back from the trunk