Abstract: Mulching apparatus having a tapered tooth structure which prepares a planting spot such that, when the apparatus is withdrawn from the ground, mulched residue remains within or adjacent to the planting spot. The apparatus may be removably attached to the boom of an excavator type vehicle and drivingly coupled to the vehicle's hydraulic drive system. The machine operator actuates and manoeuvres the vehicle, boom and mulching apparatus to rapidly prepare a series of mulch-containing planting spots for planting seeds or seedlings, for example in large scale reforestation projects.