A mulch is simply a material a farmer places around the
plants in order to serve various purposes such as reducing the weeds,
increasing and/or decreasing soil temperature, retaining the soil moisture in
addition to reducing soil compaction. Nonetheless, what informs the kind of
mulch a farmer should apply depends on the aesthetic value as well as the
function of your landscape.
Organic mulches like wood chips, tree barks, compost, seed
hulls, leaves, nut shells, grass clippings, cardboard, newspaper and/or straw
are very instrumental to your garden. This is because when applied, they will
add lots of nutrients to your garden soil when they decompose. This kind of
mulch should however be applied periodically.
On the other hand, inorganic ones like black plastics,
gravel or fabric may also perform similar functions as organic ones although
they do not add organic substances to the soil. Living mulches like ground
covers and clover can also be used I cases where other types of mulches are
less desired.
When applying mulches, it is advisable to evenly do it
around the shrubs, trees, perennials and this should not go deeper than 4
inches. Also, when applying your mulches on the trees, it is recommended that
you keep about one inch away from the plant stems. In cases where the plants
are in beds, mulching the entire bed causes no harm.
You can always apply your mulches either in fall or springs depending
on your desired effect. For instance, when apply them in spring, the mulches
will be vital in preventing the weed seeds from germinating and/or growing,
keep the temperatures of the soil cool during summer and add nutrients in the
soil {in case it is an organic one}. On the other hand, mulches applied during
fall helps keeping the temperatures warm even during winter season.
Other than just protecting and enriching the sol in your
yard, mulching your garden provides a conducive environment for your crop
growth.
Why should farmers embrace mulching?
v
Mulching protects the soil from erosion. The mulches
can easily hold the running water.
v
Mulches will reduce compaction caused to your farm
as a result of heavy rains.
v
Mulches conserve moisture in the soil and this
will reduce the desire for regular irrigation.
v
Through mulching, a farmer maintains an even
soil temperature
v
Mulching also helps in preventing weed growth
v
Where mulching is applied vegetable and fruit
garden, it helps in keeping them clean
v
Mulching keeps your feet clean such that you can
easily access your farm even if it is damp.
v
When you mulch your garden, the concept of a ‘finished’
garden is well witnessed.
Conclusively, organic mulches are very beneficial to any
garden as they improve your soil condition. As and when the mulches gradually
decompose, they produce organic substances hence keeping the soil loose. In the
long run, there will be improved root growth in your garden, increased water
infiltration rate in addition to increased ability in holding water. This is
without forgetting the ideal environment offered to the soil organisms such as
earthworms.