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Mulch facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

A mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of soil. Reasons for applying mulch include conservation of soil moisture, improving fertility and health of the soil, reducing weed growth and enhancing the visual appeal of the area.

A mulch is usually, but not exclusively, organic in nature. It may be permanent (e.g. plastic sheeting) or temporary (e.g. bark chips). It may be applied to bare soil or around existing plants. Mulches of manure or compost will be incorporated naturally into the soil by the activity of worms and other organisms. The process is used both in commercial crop production and in gardening, and when applied correctly, can improve soil productivity.

Images for kids

  • Rindenmulch016

    Bark chips applied as mulch

  • Rubber mulch

    Rubber mulch nuggets in a playground. The white fibers are nylon cords, which are present in the tires from which the mulch is made.

  • Mulch

    Shredded wood used as mulch. This type of mulch is frequently dyed for aesthetic reasons.

  • Mulch2

    Pine needles used as mulch. Also called "pinestraw" in the southern US.

  • Compost.mulch

    Aged compost mulch on a flower bed

  • Broken-stones

    Crushed stone mulch

  • Fresh.mulch

    Spring daffodils push through shredded wood mulch

  • Mulching coconut 01

    Coconut mulch

  • Permaculture garden with a fruit tree, herbs, flowers and vetetables mulched with hay

    Permaculture garden with a fruit tree, herbs, flowers and vegetables mulched with hay

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Mantillo (jardinería) para niños

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Mulch Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.