Organic mulch is formed from plant and animal remains. Inorganic mulches are, in contrast, derived from stones, lava rocks, geotextile fabrics and pulverized rubber. The organic matter releases nutrients as decomposition takes place. There are numerous organisms in the soil to help with the process. These organisms also help in formation of granules. Using the materials consistently results in high yields.
There are a number of benefits of using organic materials as mulch. These include, among others, conservation of moisture, reduced incidence of plant diseases, reduction of weeds and improvement of winter survival. They contribute to improved quality of soil by increasing fertility, regulating the temperature and improving the aeration.
By acting as a source of food for the varied species of microorganisms, the materials help create a balance in the ecosystem. These organisms cause decomposition of the material to help the growing plants. The maintenance of a favorable range of temperature also helps in contributing towards the survival of the organisms.
Mulches are known to affect the soil pH in different ways. Most of them increase the PH making it more alkaline. This tends to favor the growth of plants that thrive in such environments. Sphagnum peat is an exception and instead causes acidity. Other than the PH, addition of nitrogen is another important benefit. This is achieved with the use of materials such as fresh leaves, straw and wood chips. Nitrogen is important as it helps protect plants against diseases.
The different types of mulches available provide different benefits to soil. These may be obtained commercially or prepared at the farm. Examples of materials that can be bought include hay, woodchip. Those prepared at home include compost and leafmold and grass clippings from recently mowed lawns.
Rare choices include cocoa-bean hulls, pecan shells, mushroom compost and crushed corn-cobs among others. Some farmers leave weeds to grow freely only to cut them a few months before planting. The weeds dry and begin to decompose to serve as mulch for the new crops.
Organic mulch will only produce good results if applied correctly otherwise it may even reduce the yields. Application is done around plants that have already established themselves just at the start of the hot seasons. Care should be taken so as not to heap too much. Two to four inches are recommended. This should be reduced in areas that have a poor drainage system. Replenishment is done at 6 month intervals.
There are a number of benefits of using organic materials as mulch. These include, among others, conservation of moisture, reduced incidence of plant diseases, reduction of weeds and improvement of winter survival. They contribute to improved quality of soil by increasing fertility, regulating the temperature and improving the aeration.
By acting as a source of food for the varied species of microorganisms, the materials help create a balance in the ecosystem. These organisms cause decomposition of the material to help the growing plants. The maintenance of a favorable range of temperature also helps in contributing towards the survival of the organisms.
Mulches are known to affect the soil pH in different ways. Most of them increase the PH making it more alkaline. This tends to favor the growth of plants that thrive in such environments. Sphagnum peat is an exception and instead causes acidity. Other than the PH, addition of nitrogen is another important benefit. This is achieved with the use of materials such as fresh leaves, straw and wood chips. Nitrogen is important as it helps protect plants against diseases.
The different types of mulches available provide different benefits to soil. These may be obtained commercially or prepared at the farm. Examples of materials that can be bought include hay, woodchip. Those prepared at home include compost and leafmold and grass clippings from recently mowed lawns.
Rare choices include cocoa-bean hulls, pecan shells, mushroom compost and crushed corn-cobs among others. Some farmers leave weeds to grow freely only to cut them a few months before planting. The weeds dry and begin to decompose to serve as mulch for the new crops.
Organic mulch will only produce good results if applied correctly otherwise it may even reduce the yields. Application is done around plants that have already established themselves just at the start of the hot seasons. Care should be taken so as not to heap too much. Two to four inches are recommended. This should be reduced in areas that have a poor drainage system. Replenishment is done at 6 month intervals.
About the Author:
When people consider organic mulch, they may wonder what they can use it for. They can discover that this item can be used as part of a homeowner's landscaping supplies.
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