Plant trees and shrubs in a broad, saucer shaped depression, two to three times the size of the root ball. Dig planting holes just before you are ready to plant. Create a basin around the base of the plant to hold water. Cover the soil around all newly planted trees and shrubs. Maintenance Mulches conserve soil moisture by reducing evaporation from the soil surface.
Mulches also control weed growth and reduce erosion and soil compaction.
Mulches are divided into two major groups, organic and inorganic. Organic mulches last one to three seasons and then must be replaced. Some types of organic mulch form a crust that inhibits water percolation. Periodically rake the mulch to break up any crust that has formed. Remove or incorporate decayed organic mulch into the soil before adding more mulch.