Tree fruits are most often planted in grassy areas and a mulch ring around the base of the tree is an excellent way to reduce weeds and to keep weed-eaters and lawn mowers away from the trunks. The mulch should extend as far from the trunk as the limbs and should be four inches deep. Mulch conserves moisture, keeps the soil cool, and adds organic matter. One note - mulch can create a hiding place for voles or short tailed mice that can chew on the roots and girdle the tree. Thus, apply the mulch in the spring and let it decay to a thin layer in the fall to reduce vole cover.

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