Mulching is one of the simplest and most beneficial practices you can use in the garden. Mulch is simply a protective layer of a material that is spread on top of the soil. Covering your beds with 2-3 inches of mulch conserves a tremendous amount of water and can help suppress weeds. Mulches do not prevent weed seeds from sprouting. However, weed seedling emergence is blocked by a mulch layer thick enough to exclude light. A 3-inch layer of mulch on the soil surface also keeps most annual weed seedlings from coming through.

Again, here are the benefits of mulching:

  • protects the soil from erosion
  • reduces compaction from the impact of heavy rains
  • conserves moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering
  • maintains a more even soil temperature
  • prevents weed growth
  • keeps fruits and vegetables clean
  • keeps feet clean, allowing access to garden even when damp
  • provides a "finished" look to the garden adds organic matter to soil, if mulch materials are organic in nature.