Mulch is used to cover the soil, thereby reducing rain impact, overland flow, soil erosion, and the rapid runoff effects of water-repellent soils, in addition to increasing soil water content. Research has shown that mulching is the only treatment which consistently and significantly reduced erosion rates after a burn by immediately increasing the percent of ground cover, compared to gradually increasing cover by growing vegetation such as grass.
Using mulches also helps control weeds, improve soil aeration, prevent soil compaction, regulate soil temperature, conserve soil moisture, improve soil fertility, and beautify landscapes.
Many types of mulching materials are available to choose from. Organic mulches include compost, manure (must be aged), cover crops (e.g., clover, rye, etc.), slash, wood chips, shredded bark, straws, pine needles, grass clippings, leaf litter, fabric mulch, etc. Inorganic mulches include materials such as plastic, rubber chips, gravel, volcanic rock, etc. It is crucial to use certified weed-free products or materials.
