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Mulch
Mulch is any substance laid over the soil to help plant growth, mainly by suppressing weeds. Apply when your vegetable plants are approximately 4 inches high and your garden soil has warmed up. Cover the soil completely leaving the base of the plant stem clear. Some materials will decompose quicker than others so lay a fresh layer during the season when needed. Some common materials to use are: Non organic materials- Crushed rock
- Black plastic
- Landscape fabric
Organic materials- Layers of newspaper
- Grass clippings
- Straw
- Leaves
- Animal manure
- Compost
The Benefits - Reduces evaporation, soil stays moist longer.
- Keeps soil temperature cooler and more stable.
- Suppresses weed growth.
- Provides a clean, dryer surface so sprawling vegetables are off the bare ground, for example
squash.
- Organic materital decompose adding organic matter to the soil.
- With the soil covered the darkness promotes a haven for earthworms.
- It will keep the soil cooler in the summer which will be a benefit for
cool season
vegetables.
- Using black plastic can speed up the soil temperature in the spring.
- After your
soil preparation
lay the plastic.
- Secure by burying the edges with the soil or placing rocks or wood on top.
- Cut small holes where you will sow your
vegetable seeds
or transplants.
- The black plastic will also suppress weeds. Clear plastic will also warm the soil however weeds will grow under it because they will get the sunlight.
The Problems - If applied too thick it can restrict the passage of water.
- Keeps the soil temperature too low which will affect the growth of
warm season
vegetables.
- Can promote fungus and disease.
- Can encourage pests like slugs or mice.
- Some types can cause a nitrogen deficiency, one example is
sawdust.
Mulching can be beneficial as well as detrimental, so be clear on why you want to use it, then make sure you apply the correct material and amount. Find more about
planting a vegetable garden.
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