Controls Weeds

• Suffocates weeds
• Saves labor
• Reduces competition for water and nutrients
• Spares roots near soil surface, which are often damaged by cultivation

Moderates Soil Moisture & Temperature Fluctuations

• Keeps the soil moist by reducing evaporation and transpiration from weeds
• Buffers diurnal and seasonal temperature changes, soil stays warmer at night and in the fall, cooler during the day and in the summer

Improves Soil Fertility & Structure

• Adds nutrients as it decomposes although it may tie up nitrogen temporarily if high in carbon
• Reduces leaching losses and top soil loss by wind action and rain running off the surface
• Prevents soil compaction
• Encourages earthworms, whose burrows aerate and drain soil
• Organic matter improves soil structure
• Encourages microbial growth; CO2 evolved by microbes may be important in stimulating plant growth

Reduces Pest & Disease Damage

• Provides a permanent home for biological controls of pests (predators) parasites, pathogens) although may also encourage slugs and rodents. If the mulch is easily removed, slugs may be picked up and killed so this can be an easy way to control them, the mulch acting as a trap
• Microbial toxins released during mulch decomposition probably help to control plant diseases. certain fungi that catch nematodes are encouraged by soil conditions under the mulch

Other Reasons to Mulch

• Prevents fruit from bruising or coming in contact with the soil, thus decreasing the risk of rot
• Can markedly improve the flavour of crops, especially small fruits, (quickly decomposing materials are best for this)
• A good way of planting into sod or a weedy field is to lay the mulch down all over the field some time before planting; this will kill the weeds and leave a soft, friable (easily crumbled or pulverized) soil

Types of Mulches

• We will determine the type of mulch that will be suitable for your yard
• Contact Us today to find out which mulch is best for you!