Using river rock as mulch - Ask Extension
We are an HOA with significant common area. Some of our 'parking strips' have large trees which make growing grass under them very difficult. We are c...
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Using river rock as mulch #876745
Asked July 10, 2024, 7:28 PM EDT
We are an HOA with significant common area. Some of our 'parking strips' have large trees which make growing grass under them very difficult. We are considering converting some of these parking strip areas to river rock and capping off the sprinklers in these strips. Are there any down sides to this idea that you see? The trees in these areas are 20+ year old Norway Maples.
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
You have a good plan but I would ease off the irrigation gradually over a multi-year period. With a lot of irrigation in a little area many of the fine roots of the tree may be concentrated there. Cutting off irrigation all at once might cause a bit of shock to the tree. By irregularly watering it should encourage the roots to find water elsewhere. Just a guess being cautious not to loose any trees.
