What is Mulch and how does it work?
Mulch is simply a layer of natural material, placed on the soil surface, that conserves moisture, protects and adds nutrients to the topsoil, and guards it against extremes of climate.*
Mulches also provide a benefit in evening out fluctuations in soil temperature, keeping soils warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Coarse materials that trap air will provide the best result. Gardeners can further enhance temperature effects in the soil by choosing mulches of different colour depending on their objectives. For instance a dark coloured mulch can be used in cold winter climates to try and maximize heat absorption allowing for spring root growth to start earlier and lengthen the growing season for vegetables in particular. Conversely in hot climates light coloured mulches such as straw will reflect heat and avoid high soil temperatures that can cause root damage.**
Sugar Cane Mulch
Advantages…
- Contains no weed seeds, a very big plus as most other mulches contain at least some weed seeds.
- Is soft to touch and is of a uniform texture, which makes it easy to spread.
- Takes a reasonably long time to break down, though not as long as straw.
Disadvantages…
- Can be a bit dusty, but this can be overcome by putting a small hole in the bag and wetting down the contents before spreading.
Straw as Mulch
Advantages…
- Fairly cheap.
- Contains fewer weed seeds than hay or pea straw.
Disadvantages…
- Relatively low in nutrient value. However this can be bolstered by first ‘processing’ the straw via your chicken run. Your girls can remove seed and weed, and add their ‘touch of magic’!
Tea Tree Mulch
Advantages…
- It breaks down reasonably slowly and therefore lasts for quite a while.
- Tea tree mulch is also said to have a repellent effect on termites.
Disadvantages…
- Smells is quite strong
For more information on Mulch, talk to our friendly team!
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*Organic Gardener – https://www.organicgardener.com.au/blogs/mulches-and-mulching
** Gardening Australia – http://www.abc.net.au/gardening/stories/s1899099.htm
