3 biggest mulch mistakes homeowners make

It's finally mulching season, after a month of nonstop rain.

But before you start spreading those big bags of black hardwood or pine mulch, a we have a warning about the top three mulching mistakes many people make.

1. Mulch Volcano

Do you pile the mulch high around your tree trunks? Many professional landscapers do this, and it looks great. But looks can be deceiving.

Its called a "mulch volcano," and it's the worst thing for young trees, according to horticulturists.

Thats because rain runs off it, and the tree roots dry out in the summer.

Instead, the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association says spread mulch evenly, and not too thick. And skip the volcano effect.

2. Too Much Mulch

Error number two, according to the Nursery Association, is spreading more than 4 inches of mulch in a bed: That encourages mold and fungus growth. The ground cannot "breathe."

Mulching over wet soil will also lead to fungus growth: wait for the ground to dry.

3. Welcome, Termites!

And spreading mulch right up to your house is mistake number three.  You are inviting termites inside, especially if you have wood siding or shingles.

Experts say keep mulch at least 3 inches away from the side of your house, if not 12 inches away.

One last piece of advice: don't be lazy and lay mulch on top of your grass: It will look nice for a week or two and then the grass will grow through it. Remove stray grass pieces before mulching.

So go sparingly, and take your time, and don't waste your money.

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