Though mulch is a term normally associated with manure or compost, it is not something belonging to that category of gardening. Mulch (wood chips Perth), by definition, is a layer of (inorganic or organic) material applied to the soil, measuring 2 or more inches, for any one of the following listed and (non-listed) reasons.
1 – Retaining soil moisture
Applying a layer of mulch on the soil essentially and effectively retains soil moisture by not letting the sunrays penetrate deep (which paves way for the evaporation of the soil moisture). This ensures that the plants (if any) have enough water to absorb, thus growing in the desired manner.
2 – Regulate soil temperature
Mulching, especially during summer, retains the inherent moisture of the soil, and by extension, keeps the temperature of the soil under control. The ambient temperature of the soil during summer is considerably reduced, keeping the ground at a cooler contrast as opposed to the winds and temperature during summers.
At nights, irrespective of season, mulching ensures that the soil stays warm and does not lose heat to its immediate surroundings.
3 – Suppress weed growth
The primary reason for the growth of weeds is the presence of abundant nutrients in the soil, adequate water and as required for any plant, sunlight. For any form of vegetation to first make a mark on the ground, it is necessary for it to be able to photosynthesize. And by blocking the rays of the sun from reaching the soil, we are effectively hampering the very germination of the undesirable plant, thus ensuring that weeds do not grow to ruin the landscaping and competing for nutrients with other desired plants.
4 – Prevention of soil erosion
Mulching ensures that the soil is set and that the nutrient-rich topsoil does not run-off even during times of heavy rain or floods.
5 – For aesthetic purposes
Mulching with stones and pebble of various colors and textures increases the visual appeal of any place. Used in courtyards of prominent buildings across the world, it is one of the main reasons why stones are used for mulching.
An important thing to keep in mind while mulching is that, too much if it is also not going to do any good to the plant or the soil. If the mulch is thicker than necessary, it will lead to the soil being extremely dry or wet; moderation will not be achieved. Also, too much of mulching will prevent the soil from getting water, along with it being protected from sun rays.
Thus, be informed about mulching and its types before resorting to it.