Tree-Mulching for Water-Conservation
Gardening with Trees in Dry Climates Create a well inside the mulch-ring, and keep mulch pieces away from trunk as shown.. Dry-Climate Landscaping with Stone and Gravel Conserves Water Landscaping in dry climates and during serious droughts that may be permanent is a challenge. To conserve water and protect this fruit tree's roots from drying heat as well as cold mountain weather, a classic Japanese gardening component, namely large gravel, was employed outside the initial wood-mulched ring around its trunk. Not only does gravel look gorgeous during the changing light of day and evening, but it inhibits the growth of competing plants--weeds and "volunteers" that steal precious water to survive. Gravel endures more than grass in dry climates, keeps dusty soil from blowing about, and always looks right. ©M-J de Mesterton