Is mulch application considered a common type of fertilizer application for trees?

Mulch application is not considered a type of fertilizer application for trees. Unlike fertilizers, which are specifically formulated to provide nutrients directly to plants, mulch serves multiple other purposes. It helps retain soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, and prevents weed growth by covering the soil. Additionally, as organic mulch decomposes over time, it can improve soil structure and contribute some nutrients to the soil, but this is more an ancillary benefit rather than a direct fertilization effect.

By applying mulch, you create a healthier environment for tree roots by maintaining stable moisture levels and promoting beneficial microbial activity in the soil. While it is essential for the overall health and development of trees, particularly in young trees, it does not replace the need for actual fertilizers when trees require specific nutrient inputs. Thus, the application of mulch is distinctly different from fertilization practices.