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 The
Merits of Organic Mulch
Organic mulches are mulches that are made from previously living
materials, such as pine bark or wood chips. They come in many varieties
and textures.
Most gardeners know that a good mulch will help to prevent the
germination of weeds, but there are many other benefits to having
a good layer of mulch over the bare soil areas in your landscape:
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Organic mulches decompose over time. This adds nutrients to the top layer
of the soil, eventually creating a layer of rich, fertile humus.
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Mulch protects the soil from compaction due to heavy rains
or harsh sun.
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It helps retain oxygen in the soil.
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A good layer of mulch helps to prevent erosion by absorbing
rainfall and preventing water runoff.
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Soil stays damp longer after watering or rainfall because
mulch helps prevent evaporation. This aids in water conservation
during dry periods.
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Mulch shelters beneficial organisms such as earthworms and
ground dwelling spiders that help to control harmful insect
populations.
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Some mulches have scents which help to deter rodent and feline
pests.
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A circle of mulch around trees and woody shrubs helps to
protect plant roots near the soil surface from injury due
to string trimmers and lawnmower blades.
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Mulches help to protect
the soil from temperature extremes which can
damage root systems and cause bulbs to be heavedout of the ground.
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Mulch should be laid in a layer no more than 2 or 3 inches deep
or it will block air and moisture from reaching the soil causing
the roots of plants to come to the soil's surface. If the mulch
layer is less than 2 inches thick, the moisture retaining benefits
are reduced.
Summer Mulch
A summer mulch should be applied to the bare soil areas of your
property after the soil has warmed in the spring to retain moisture
and supress weeds.
Winter Mulch
A winter mulch should be put down in late fall or early winter
after the soil has cooled but before it has frozen. This will keep
the soil evenly cool and prevent heaving. Remove a winter mulch
in spring to allow the soil to warm.
Water Conservation
 During
times of drought, it is best to water your plantings at the roots
with soaker hoses worked into the mulch (and placed on outdoor timers)
rather than with a spray from overhead. Overspray wastes water because
much of the water stays on the leaves of plants and then evaporates
into the air without reaching their roots. Your Southern States
dealer can help you choose the right hoses and timers for your situation.
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