How to Mulch Fallen Trees
A fallen tree offers much more than an eyesore and inconvenience. It has the potential to be recycled into a considerable amount of mulch. To get the job done right, you'll have to rent a wood chipper from your local home and garden center or other retailer. Before you take the chipper home, ask for a walk-through of its operation, emergency shut-off switch and safety guards. Wood chippers can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Remove the branches from the tree at their base with an ax or saw.
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Chop up the trunk into roughly 2-foot lengths, in sections narrow enough to easily fit into the mouth of the chipper.
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Place the wood chipper on a flat, level surface. Make sure that the area directly around the wood chipper is free of tripping hazards.
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Turn the chipper on following the manufacturer's instructions for operation and safety precautions. Make sure that the safety hood is latched and closed.
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Feed the branches into the mouth of the hopper cut end first. Once the chipper's teeth grip the branch and begin to pull it in, let it go and allow the chipper to pull it in. If the branch gets stuck, use a longer branch to help push it in. Place shorter branches on top of longer branches to easily feed them into the hopper without getting your hands anywhere near its mouth. Never put your hands into the mouth of the hopper.
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Feed the trunk sections into the mouth of the hopper.
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Rake the mulch and apply it to your garden plants in a 2- to 3-inch layer. The best time to apply mulch is in early spring.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear long clothing (no cuffs or loose or baggy fabric that may become caught in the chipper), goggles, a hard hat, and safety boots with tread. Tie long hair back and take off any jewelry.
Turn the wood chipper off before attempting to pull out any jams.
Never work alone when using a wood chipper.
Do not work alone when using a chipper or shredder.
Stand at a safe manufacturer-recommended distance from the mouth of the hopper when feeding it.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
