Free Mulch, Come Get your Free Mulch

As is tradition, the city of Austin is offering free Christmas tree mulch to the public beginning Wednesday, January 13. It's a limited supply, so it will be given to people on a first come, first serve basis.

The city's parks and recreation department says the mulch is for private use and usually goes quickly - within 24 hours. You can pick up the mulch at Zilker Park by the Polo fields. You should bring your own bags and other necessary equipment. The city says park workers will not be able to assist anyone with mulch loading.

There is a caution: the Parks and Recreation staff recommend the mulch to cure for several months in a pile. It is green and the decaying process causes it to get very hot. Staff members say if the mulch is applied without a waiting period, it may damage or kill vegetation in areas where it is spread.

If you'd like more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 512-974-6700.