This is especially true for trees because ... stays dry and safe from fungal infections and pests. If possible, you should ...

The smell of spring is in the air in Greater Columbus — not the smell of hyacinths or daffodils, but the smell of freshly applied hardwood mulch around trees and shrubs and other perennial plants.

In the autumn, spread a ring of mulch around newly planted trees, shrubs or herbaceous perennials. In early winter, tender plants like Verbena bonariensis or dahlias will benefit from a thick mulch.