How to Make a Clean Mulch Ring Around a Tree

dantepruden174
Jun 1
2 min read

A Small Project with Big Impact

Want your yard to look instantly more polished — without spending a ton of money? A mulch ring around your trees adds curb appeal, protects your tree’s roots, and makes mowing way easier.

This is a beginner-friendly project that takes a few hours and uses basic tools you probably already own.

What You’ll Need

Flat spade or half-moon edger
Rake
Wheelbarrow or tarp (for grass removal)
Landscape fabric (optional)
Mulch (shredded bark or wood chips work great)

Step 1: Mark Your Ring

Use a garden hose or spray paint to outline a circle around the base of your tree.

Pro Tip: Make the ring at least 2–3 feet wide in every direction from the trunk — bigger trees, wider rings.

Step 2: Cut and Remove Sod

Use your spade or edger to cut along the line. Then, peel up the sod inside the ring. Toss the grass onto a tarp or into your compost bin.

Don’t skip this part — laying mulch right over grass won’t give you clean edges and can trap moisture.

Step 3: Level and Clean the Soil

Rake the soil inside the ring smooth and remove any large clumps, roots, or weeds.

If you’re using landscape fabric, this is where you lay it down. It helps stop weeds but isn’t strictly necessary if you maintain the mulch regularly.

Step 4: Add Mulch (But Not Too Much)

Spread your mulch evenly around the ring, keeping it about 2–3 inches thick. Don’t pile it up around the trunk — that’s called a “mulch volcano” and it can rot the bark.

Keep the center clear so the base of the trunk is exposed.

Step 5: Step Back and Admire

That’s it. You just upgraded your yard in less than an hour. It’s cleaner, healthier, and easier to maintain from here on out.

Why It Matters

Protects roots from heat and cold
Retains soil moisture
Prevents mower and trimmer damage
Suppresses weeds
Looks way better

Want Us to Handle the Harder Stuff?

At Acres Lawncare, we’re big believers in doing it right the first time. From clean mulch rings to complete property makeovers, we help your yard look its best — without the guesswork.