Mulching acts as a seal therefore improving the soil’s moisture retention.
It reduces soil temperature so less water is lost due to evaporation
Improves the condition of the soil
Vital source of food for earthworms
Increases the insect life in the garden
Slows water that is running past plants
It reduces reflectivity. Bare sand or clay soil can develop a very bright reflective surface which bounces the heat and light of the sun back onto plants (white gravel and pebbles)
It reduces exposure to wind, which results in less moisture lost through evaporation.
It promotes good root growth by retaining moisture in the root zone.
It protects the roots of plants
It suppresses weed growth by keeping out the light.
It controls erosion by softening the impact of falling water and slowing it down before running off. It prevents soil from being washed way from around plants.
Organic mulch eventually breaks down and improves the quality and water-holding capacity of the soil near the surface.
Organic mulch is less conspicuous, allows water to pass through and will eventually decompose, thus increasing the humus content.
Organic mulching includes manure, grass, leaves, moss, straw, seaweed.
Spread a layer of mulch at least 4cm deep evenly.
Container plants will benefit from mulching
Pine needles are good for acid loving plants like azaleas and camellias
Soak the ground well before mulching
Stones, pebbles, gravel can be used as mulch but they can store heat and should be used cautiously in hot gardens and are most suitable in shady areas.
