Mulch is the term used to simply describe the action of
putting a covering layer on the ground/soil. There are many benefits for using
mulch, using an ‘organic’ mulch brings many more benefits than using a
‘non-organic’ mulch such as plastic or gravel.
Why should I use
compost/bark as mulch in my garden?
Using organic mulches, such as compost, in your garden can
bring the following benefits:
A thick layer
of mulch deprives weeds seeds of the light and bare soil that they need to germinate,
preventing weeds from gaining a foothold underneath the mulch and from above by
not being able to reach the soil.
Mulching
prevents the evaporation of moisture from the soil. Using compost as mulch also
helps to reduce ‘run off’ after watering as the compost acts as a sponge,
holding water and allowing the excess to filter through. Regulating moisture is
important to help build strong healthy plants.
- Insulates plants from extreme weather conditions
A thick layer
of mulch will help protect plants from the extremes of weather during the cold
winter and warm summers. As with moisture regulation, temperature regulation
will help to build strong plants.
- Feeds the soil as the mulch will break down, also improving
the soil structure
Compost Mulch
will break down over time to release nutrients, feeding the plants by adding
more organic matter to the soil structure. Worms will come to the surface for
the organic matter, taking it back into the soil, increasing aeration in the
soil and leaving a trail of nutrients behind them. Not only will the soil
structure be improved, but there will be less need to purchase artificial
fertilisers.
- Increases microbial activity in the soil
Compost is an
organically activity substance, and as the Compost Mulch breaks down, it takes
microbial activity which improves the overall soil health and encourages root
growth.
When should I mulch?
Autumn is the perfect time to mulch. The soil is still warm
and the rain will have moistened the soil.
The mulch will help to regulate temperatures and moisture
over the cold winter, and the soil structure will be improved going into
spring.
In spring, when the ground starts to warm up again, remove
the remainder of mulch ready for planting; before reapplying mulch to regulate
moisture and temperature in the soil during the hot summers.
How to apply compost
mulch?
The common mistake made when applying compost as mulch is
that not enough is used! You need to apply a 5-6” layer to smother the weeds
and regulate moisture and temperature.
Weed the area first (or the mulch might just feed the
already established weeds!), water the soil area well, or apply after rainfall,
apply the mulch and then water that well. Leave a gap around plant stems, or
the mulch might cause damage to the plant: leave an inch or so diameter around
the plants.
Happy Gardening!!!
