Conifers will benefit from mulching. It helps to keep down weeds and keeps the roots cool in summer. Mulching also discourages people from walking on this area and causing compaction.

You can use any kind of course mulch, e.g. aged wood chips, shredded leaves, etc. Make a 2 - 3 inch layer of the material starting a few inches away from the trunk of the tree and extending a foot or so further than the tree canopy line..Start with a thin layer and make it thicker towards the outside. Do not create a dam of mulch that restricts air flow under the tree limbs if they are close to the ground.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service