Gravel against tree trunk

[Baldy217]

I have mulched around my maples but I wanted to know if I could put some gravel against the tree trunk to prevent weed and grass from growing there. I have a 1 to 2 inch gap from the mulch to the trunk right now.

[fastpine]

Sure you can,,,If you apply weed barrier fabric under.

[Eric E]

From a certified Arborist...I wouldn't.

[fastpine]

Why?....What makes gravel any different than the dirt that trees naturally grow in?..

[toasted]

There's no food in the rocks would be my guess...

[fastpine]

That would make sense if the whole tree was planted in gravel..The OP is talking about a thin layer around the base of the tree trunk...