Tree Berms: A Guide for Young Gardeners
What are Tree Berms?
Tree berms are like small basins made of soil or mulch that help water reach a tree’s roots. They’re especially useful for trees that need extra water or are planted in hard-to-reach areas.
Do Trees Need Berms?
Not all trees need berms. Trees that grow well in forests or fields without them may not need them in your backyard either. But berms can be helpful for trees that are:
- Isolated or far from water sources
- Planted in flat areas that are watered with a hose
- On a hill where rainwater tends to run off
How to Build a Tree Berm
Building a tree berm is easy, especially when you’re planting a new tree. Here’s how:
- Choose the right location. The berm should be built around the outer edge of the root ball.
- Gather your materials. You’ll need soil or mulch, and a shovel or hoe.
- Create the berm. Start by piling up the soil or mulch around the base of the tree, forming a circular wall. Make the berm about 3-4 inches high and twice as wide.
- Don’t pile the soil too close to the trunk. This can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots.
- Water the berm. This will help the soil or mulch settle and create a barrier that holds water.
When to Build a Tree Berm
The best time to build a tree berm is when you’re planting a new tree. This makes it easier to ensure that the berm doesn’t cover the root ball and that it’s the right size and shape.
How to Use a Berm to Irrigate a Tree
To irrigate a tree with a berm, simply fill up the basin with water. The water will slowly seep down to the roots. This is a great way to water trees on flat land or on hillsides where rainwater tends to run off.
How to Create a Berm on a Hill for a Tree
To create a berm on a hill for a tree, build a semi-circle on the downhill side of the tree. This will help prevent rainwater from flowing away from the tree.
How to Choose the Right Materials for a Tree Berm
The best materials for a tree berm are soil or mulch. Soil is a good choice because it’s already full of nutrients that the tree needs. Mulch is also a good choice because it helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
How to Maintain a Tree Berm
Tree berms are relatively low-maintenance. However, you should check them regularly to make sure they’re still in good condition. If the berm has been damaged or eroded, simply repair it by adding more soil or mulch.
Troubleshooting Problems with Tree Berms
If you’re having problems with your tree berm, here are a few things to check:
- The berm is too close to the trunk. This can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots.
- The berm is not high enough or wide enough. This can allow water to spill over or run off before it reaches the roots.
- The berm is made of the wrong materials. Soil or mulch are the best choices for tree berms.
- The berm is not properly maintained. Check the berm regularly for damage or erosion, and repair it as needed.
By following these tips, you can build and maintain a tree berm that will help your trees thrive.
