Mulching
Protecting The Soil
Mulching is one of the simplest and most beneficial practices you can use in the garden. Mulch is defined as a protective layer of material that is spread on the top of soil.
Mulch comes in two different types: organic and inorganic.
Examples of organic mulch are: grass clippings, straw, bark chips and similar material.
Mulches that are inorganic include: stones, bark chips, and plastic. Both of these types of mulch are very beneficial to your soil in their own ways.
Mulch that is both organic and inorganic provides these benefits:
- It protects the soil from erosion
- It reduces compaction from the impact of heavy rains
- Conserves moisture which reduces the need for frequent watering
- Maintains a more even soil temperature
- Prevents weed growth
- Keeps fruit and vegetables clean
- Keeps your feet clean, allowing easy access to your garden even when it is damp
- Provides a “finished” look to the garden .
Organic mulch also improves the condition of the soil. As the mulch slowly decomposes, it provides organic matter which helps keep the soil loose. Loose soil improves root growth, increases the infiltration of water and also improves water-holding capacity of the soil. Organic matter is a source of plant nutrients and it also provides an ideal environment for earthworms and other beneficial soil organisms.
Inorganic mulches have their place in certain landscapes but they do lack the soil improving properties of the organic mulch. Due to the persistence of inorganic mulch, it may be difficult to remove if you decide to change your garden at a later date.
Newspaper Sheet Mulching is a highly effective non-toxic way to subdue annual grasses and weeds. For tougher weeds, use cardboard.
| First, wet the soil. Then lay thick layers of overlapping newspaper. |
 Wet the newspaper to keep it in place... |
Then apply organic mulch. |
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For tougher weeds, use cardboard. |
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