Most people know about regular mulching. You may have even tried it yourself by spreading wood chips around the base of a tree to help hold in moisture or keep weeds at bay. But did you know there’s another kind of mulching called vertical mulching?
In this blog post, you’ll learn the answer to the question, “What is vertical mulching?” If you’re ready for your trees to experience the benefits of vertical mulching, call Hawkins Tree and Landscaping at (870) 330-9912 to schedule landscaping services in Nash, TX.
What Is Vertical Mulching?
Vertical mulching is the process of improving soil conditions below the surface of a tree’s root zone. Instead of spreading mulch on top of the ground, professionals drill a series of vertical holes throughout the area under the tree canopy and fill them with organic material that allows air, water, and nutrients to move through the soil more easily.
At Hawkins Tree and Landscaping, our crew follows a clear, careful process to help trees recover without damaging major roots. Here’s what it looks like:
Creating the Hole Pattern
Professionals drill evenly spaced holes across the root zone to treat compacted areas while avoiding large structural roots.
Filling the Soil Columns
Each hole receives compost or mulch blends that retain moisture and slowly release nutrients into the surrounding soil.
Supporting Ongoing Root Health
The improved soil structure also supports deep root fertilization techniques when trees need additional nutrients later on.
What Are the Benefits of Vertical Mulching for Trees?
Now that you understand the answer to the question, “What is vertical mulching?” it’s time to learn about the benefits.
Tree Problems Vertical Mulching Helps Correct
Listed below are common tree conditions in Nash, TX, that often require vertical mulching.
- Compacted soil caused by foot traffic or equipment
- Poor drainage that leaves roots waterlogged
- Slow growth or thinning canopies
- Shallow roots struggling in hard soil
- Limited nutrient uptake
When these problems go unaddressed, trees slowly start to decline.
Relieving Root Zone Compaction
Relieving root zone compaction remains one of the main reasons arborists recommend vertical mulching. Compacted soil blocks oxygen and restricts water movement. Roots cannot breathe or absorb nutrients properly in these conditions.
Vertical mulching opens pathways through dense soil. Air reaches the roots again, water drains more evenly, and feeder roots begin functioning as they should.
Soil Aeration for Mature Trees
Lawns, driveways, sidewalks, and regular foot traffic all compress soil over time. Older trees often suffer because their root zones have nowhere to expand. Vertical mulching improves aeration without disturbing the tree. The process restores airflow beneath the surface, allowing roots to recover and function more efficiently.
Urban Tree Soil Rehabilitation
Many trees in developed areas of Nash, TX, grow in challenging environments. Construction activity, compacted fill soil, and limited space all work against healthy root systems. Vertical mulching improves soil structure beneath lawns and hardscapes, giving roots access to air and moisture again. Healthier soil gives urban trees a better chance to remain stable and productive.
Call Hawkins Tree and Landscaping To Schedule Vertical Mulching Services
If you’re tired of seeing your trees struggle with compacted soil, poor growth, or thinning canopies, vertical mulching may be the solution. This process improves root health, supports recovery, and creates better conditions for long-term growth.
If you still don’t understand the answer to the question, “What is vertical mulching?” or you want to schedule service, call Hawkins Tree and Landscaping at (870) 330-9912. If you’re curious about other mulching methods and how to handle them yourself, take a look at our tree mulching guide.