ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF USING MULCH

It’s that time of the year again. The daffodils are starting to poke through the ground, the witch hazels are starting to bloom and robins seem to be everywhere. Spring is coming! That means it’s also time to prepare your planting beds. In nature forest roots are anchored in rich, well aerated soil full of nutrients. The soil is protected by leaves and organic matter that replenishes nutrients and provides optimal root growth and mineral uptake. Urban landscapes however typically consist of poor soils, little organic matter and big fluctuations in moisture and soil temperature. That leaves the homeowner with the task of adding mulch to the planting beds to improve soil aeration, to help moderate soil temperatures to give plants a uniform, well cared for look. But there are environmental benefits as well. Mulch conserves moisture by reducing evaporation. If the soil stays moist then less irrigation is required and that conserves water. A layer of mulch can inhibit certain plant diseases reducing the need for fungicides. There are also fewer weeds with a proper layer of mulch. Less weeds means less chemicals are used both post-emergent and pre-emergent. Mulch also reduces erosion by adding a protective layer from the forces of nature above it. And organic mulch adds nutrients back into the soil naturally guarantying plenty of nutrients for your plants. Every gardener should consider mulching their planting beds. Adding a good organic mulch can mimic a more natural environment and improve plant health. And remember Mother Nature does not like bare soil!

This article was contributed by Shane Holderer of Landscape Plus LLC

Shane Holderer
Landscape Plus LLC
4734 Applebutter Road
Pipersville, Pa. 18947
215-646-1235
Landscape Plus LLC