Mulch is a layer material that covers the soil. Most gardeners are familiar with the standard reasons to use mulch in the garden. Mulch is very effective in reducing weed populations. Weed seeds need light to germinate and grow, so the main function of mulch in weed control is to prevent light from reaching the seeds. Mulch also prevents erosion during thunderstorms with torrential rain, and the lower temperatures under the mulch keep microbes and earthworms happy.
Most mulches work well in any garden, so the materials you choose may depend most on what is available where you live, how you want your garden to look, and your pocketbook. Organic material such as straw, leaves, sawdust, grass clippings, ground corn cobs, and wood chips make excellent mulch. While some mulch can come from recycled material in your own yard, it can also be purchased bagged or in bulk from a garden center.
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