What Is Vertical Mulching?
Vertical mulching, sometimes called soil decompaction, is a process that relieves compacted soil around tree roots. Small vertical holes are drilled into the ground throughout the root zone and filled with organic compost or soil conditioner.
This creates natural channels for air, water, and nutrients to reach deeper soil layers, helping roots expand and function properly.
Why Vertical Mulching Matters in the East Bay
The East Bay’s compact clay soils and long dry seasons make it difficult for water and oxygen to reach tree roots. Over time, this leads to shallow rooting, poor growth, and increased drought stress.
Vertical mulching restores soil structure and permeability, allowing roots to grow deeper and stronger. It’s especially effective for:
Mature trees showing signs of decline or poor canopy density
Trees affected by drought or soil compaction near driveways, walkways, or construction sites
Properties where irrigation or natural rainfall struggles to penetrate the soil
Our Vertical Mulching Process
Our team follows a precise, arborist-led process designed to maximize soil restoration while protecting existing root systems:
Soil and Root Evaluation – An ISA Certified Arborist assesses soil density, compaction depth, and root distribution.
Vertical Drilling – Evenly spaced holes are drilled throughout the critical root zone using specialized tools.
Organic Amendment Fill – Each opening is filled with compost, biochar, or other soil enhancers to increase porosity and nutrient content.
Post-Treatment Watering – We water the treated area to activate microbial activity and support immediate root uptake.
This process immediately improves soil aeration and sets the stage for lasting root recovery.
When to Schedule Vertical Mulching
Vertical mulching can be performed almost any time of year, but the best results come during spring or fall, when trees are actively growing new roots. It’s also ideal after periods of drought, construction, or visible signs of soil compaction such as thin canopies, yellowing leaves, or early leaf drop.
Why Choose Evergreen for Vertical Mulching
With more than 40 years of experience caring for trees in Contra Costa County, Evergreen Tree Care understands the region’s unique soil challenges. Our ISA Certified Arborists tailor each vertical mulching treatment to local soil conditions and tree species to ensure measurable, lasting results.
ISA Certified Arborists and TRAQ-qualified consultants
Specialized equipment for precise, low-impact soil work
Customized organic amendment blends for each property
Proven success improving soil health in East Bay landscapes
Evergreen Tree Care Reviews
Property owners across Walnut Creek and Danville rely on Evergreen for precise, results-driven soil restoration services
Vertical Mulching in Neighborhoods Throughout Contra Costa County
From Walnut Creek and Lafayette to Pittsburg and Discovery Bay, Evergreen’s crews perform vertical mulching and soil restoration services for residential, HOA, and municipal clients across the East Bay.
Our understanding of local soils and microclimates allows us to recommend the right treatments for every property.
Explore More Soil & Root Health Services
Deep Root Fertilization
After soil has been loosened through vertical mulching, deep root fertilization replenishes vital nutrients and beneficial microbes. Evergreen’s premium blend strengthens roots and canopy health while improving the soil’s nutrient-holding capacity.
Air Spading
Air spading safely exposes roots for inspection and correction of girdling, decay, or poor planting depth. It’s a non-invasive way to solve below-ground problems and prepare soil for long-term recovery.
BioHydration Treatments
BioHydration helps trees recover from drought or water stress by re-establishing proper soil moisture balance. It’s especially useful following de-compaction or fertilization to stabilize microbial activity and promote consistent hydration.
Request a Vertical Mulching Quote Today
Ready to give your trees the healthy soil they need? Call Evergreen Tree Care at 925-825-8165 or request a consultation online. Our Certified Arborists will assess your soil conditions and recommend the best treatment plan for your property.
What Happens Next
1️⃣ Site Visit – An ISA Certified Arborist inspects your soil and tree conditions.
2️⃣ Estimate – You’ll receive a clear proposal outlining materials, layout, and pricing.
3️⃣ Service Completion – Our two-person team performs the treatment efficiently with minimal disruption.
4️⃣ Follow-Up – We check progress and recommend any next-step PHC treatments if needed.
Schedule Your Tree Service Today
Get expert care from trusted East Bay arborists—call 925-825-8165 or request an appointment using the form below, and we’ll take care of the rest.
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What to expect
We believe tree care should be simple and stress-free. When you call our office or submit a request form, our team handles every detail so your tree service experience is as easy as possible.
- Initial Contact – We confirm your details and schedule a convenient appointment.
- On-Site Evaluation – A Certified Arborist visits your property to assess your trees and answer questions.
- Personalized Proposal – You receive a clear estimate with recommended services and next steps.
- Scheduling & Service – Once approved, we book your project and complete the work safely and efficiently.