Mulches and Their Purposes
Mulches are one of the most important properties in the homeowner's landscape. They help in moisture control, beautification, weed control, organic soil conditioning, soil temperature and have many other uses. Mulches are classified in two types: Organic and inorganic. Organic include mulches that decompose, such as barks, leaves, and hulls. Inorganic consist of such items as marble, gravel, and plastics.
All mulches have certain qualities in common, while others are more specific. The constants of mulches are as follows:
Moisture Control - Any amount or kind will shade the soil, thus keeping it from drying out so fast. It will also shade roots and stalks, causing the plant to use less water. The ideal amount should be 4 inches deep or more.
Weed Control - Again, any depth will help, but only becomes really effective 3 inches deep or more with all types except plastic sheeting.
Soil Temperature -Temperature runs very consistent with moisture. The purpose of the mulch, however, is to keep the soil temperature as constant as possible. It does not keep soil from freezing, but will slow down temperature fluctuation, which harms plants.
Erosion - All types help with both water and wind erosion. The "softer" mulches work better for water erosion, and the "harder" ones work better for wind.
More Specific uses of mulches are as follows:
Beautification - Most of the mulches have some value for beauty. The organic mulches have a softer cooler look, while the inorganic are used for stronger, hotter looks. White marble is used usually as just an accent. Darker rocks or gravel are used in small areas. Barks are mostly used when large areas need covered.
Soil Improvements - With the exception of sand and small gravel used for aeration, only organic mulches are used as soil amendments. These decompose in the soil over a period of time. They loosen the soil, causing better aeration and water-holding capacity.
Remember, plants do much better when mulched. A tree or shrub should not be sold without having the customer purchase or have some mulch on hand.
All mulches have certain qualities in common, while others are more specific. The constants of mulches are as follows:
Moisture Control - Any amount or kind will shade the soil, thus keeping it from drying out so fast. It will also shade roots and stalks, causing the plant to use less water. The ideal amount should be 4 inches deep or more.
Weed Control - Again, any depth will help, but only becomes really effective 3 inches deep or more with all types except plastic sheeting.
Soil Temperature -Temperature runs very consistent with moisture. The purpose of the mulch, however, is to keep the soil temperature as constant as possible. It does not keep soil from freezing, but will slow down temperature fluctuation, which harms plants.
Erosion - All types help with both water and wind erosion. The "softer" mulches work better for water erosion, and the "harder" ones work better for wind.
More Specific uses of mulches are as follows:
Beautification - Most of the mulches have some value for beauty. The organic mulches have a softer cooler look, while the inorganic are used for stronger, hotter looks. White marble is used usually as just an accent. Darker rocks or gravel are used in small areas. Barks are mostly used when large areas need covered.
Soil Improvements - With the exception of sand and small gravel used for aeration, only organic mulches are used as soil amendments. These decompose in the soil over a period of time. They loosen the soil, causing better aeration and water-holding capacity.
Remember, plants do much better when mulched. A tree or shrub should not be sold without having the customer purchase or have some mulch on hand.
