Water retention

We can probably agree that water is important to ecology.  Maybe we could say its the most important part of ecology.  Soil left bare for too long will dry and compact, forming a crust that repeals rain, causes excessive run off and becomes difficult to grow in.  These problems are all to familiar in many parts of the world.  (The process is called soil degradation and is caused by other factors as well – worth reading up on)

Basically, without a layer of “skin” to protect it, the soil beneath will die.

In the forest, mulching happens naturally as leaves and litter fall from the canopies above and carpet the forest floor.  This causes a cycle that feeds everything from fungi to trees.

It is food

A layer of natural wood mulch becomes a slow release nutrient boost for your plants and creates an ideal environment for the growth of mycorrhizal fungi.

“arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form a symbiotic relationship with a host plant that promotes root growth in the host, increases phosphorous and water uptake, provides pathogenic resistance, and provides stress resistance in exchange for carbohydrates.”

Bough, Raven & Rom, Curt & McAfee, Jason. (2011). Influence of Organic Mulches On Mycorrhizal Colonization of Apple Trees In An Organic Orchard, Poster Board #342.

Suppresses weeds and smothers invasive

With the restriction of pesticides in Ontario, even if you wanted to use them, you cant.  In order to keep our landscapes looking fresh and clean it becomes necessary to rely on a heavy mulch. 

Unfortunately though, natural wood mulch is not a set it and forget it management tool.  A 6″ or greater layer should be added once or twice a year as part of your regular maintenance.   

Cools the roots

Many of our native plants, including the jackman’s clematis, like cool roots.  They will thank you for contributing to the soil cycle with a fresh layer of natural wood mulch to get them through the hot months. 

Comment and let us know what works in your landscape.  We love hearing from you about innovative ways to manage a clean landscape. 

Happy Mulching!