Abstract: A mowing guard has a band element that forms a side wall of a tray-like container disposed on the ground about the base of a tree trunk, lamp post, utility pole, fire hydrant or like upstanding element. A bottom as constituted by drapeable sheet material inhibiting of growth of plant material connected to a lower edge of the side wall. The drapeable sheet has an opening conforming to the tree trunk or other element and extending to an opening in the side wall allowing the guard to be installed around the tree trunk or other element. The drapeable material is disposed to form a substantially continuous plant growth inhibitive covering between the tree trunk or other element and the wall element. The container may be filled with mulch material.