I'd be careful about that, Matt. If you pile too much around the base, you risk crown rot. You know that. I think I'd be tempted to use gravel. It should let some air through. Margaret L > We have had a wonderfully mild winter so far. Hoping for it to >continue! > > Still not sure whether to go with the 3 inch sand or gravel base for >the patio under the trees. Any suggestions would be appreciated. > >Good Gardening >Matt in Norfolk, Virginia USDA zone 8 > > >__________________________________________________ >Do you Yahoo!? >Yahoo! Mail Plus - Powerful. Affordable. Sign up now. >http://mailplus.yahoo.com