IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR OUR OWNERS:
Planting Guidlines

In the early 1990’s Lake Barrington Shores (LBS) developed and implemented a cyclical mulching program to protect the landscape materials on the site.  Planting beds and tree rings are currently mulched on a three year rotation. The current schedule can be obtained from the Management Office.

We use a shredded hardwood product of a color and texture that has been approved by the Landscape Commission. There are many good reasons for using mulch in a modern landscape, and LBS is no exception.  Some of these benefits include:

·        Moisture Retention- Except for a few small areas, LBS is not irrigated. As such, we largely depend on rainfall for the moisture to sustain plant life.  Mulch is a cost-effective way to help trap and hold soil moisture. Improved moisture retention keeps our trees and shrubs healthier, and will therefore reduce overall stress. Healthier plants allow us to use less pesticides here as well.

·        Soil Temperature Moderation- Mulch also helps to keep soil temperatures moderated. Its insulating qualities are effective in both summer and winter seasons, also improving plant health.

·        Aesthetics- A mulched bed looks better than bare soil, and improves the appearance of our community. Using the same type of product also gives a subtle and pleasing unity to the landscape. 

·        Weed Control - A layer of mulch will help to control (but not eliminate!) weed growth. This helps keep the landscape more attractive and easier to maintain as well.

·        Organic Matter- The type of mulch we use will decompose over time. This process adds organic matter to the soil layer that may not otherwise in exist at LBS.  Certain areas here were left with very thin layers of topsoil when work was done, and our mulch program has helped to improve overall soil structure. 

·        Reduction of Damage from Mowers & Trimmers – A mulched tree ring will protect the base of a tree from bark damage from lawnmowers and string trimmers.  

·        Protection to our Native Trees- Many of our existing mature oaks have large mulched tree rings under them. Not only does this provides the benefits above, but it enables us to eliminate competition from turfgrass, and acidify many of the trees that are battling chlorosis.  

Further information about mulches can be found at the International Society of Arboriculture website:

http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/mulching.asp