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IPM Scouting in Woody Landscape Plants

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Overmulching
IPM scouting in woody landscape plants > overmulching
Applying too much mulch around trees can restrict oxygen in the soil just like planting too deep. In heavy clay soils, thick layers of mulch may result in waterlogged soils. Mulch piled against the trunk may cause it to decay, allowing plant pathogens to enter and produce cankers. Mulch depths of 3” to 4” are adequate. Avoid piling mulch directly around the trunk. Taper the mulch depth around the trunk to about an inch or so.
Overmulching

Additional information

This information was developed from A Pocket IPM Scouting Guide for Woody Landscape Plants by Diane Brown-Rytlewski. Purchase this in a pocket-sized guide for reference in the orchard from MSU Extension (publication E-2839).
The MSU IPM Program maintains this site as an access point to pest management information at MSU. The IPM Program is administered within the Department of Entomology, fueled by research from the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, delivered to citizens through MSU Extension, and proud to be a part of Project GREEEN.
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Updated 7/17/07