A protective covering for the soil or compost, old leaves, paper, rocks, etc. – indoors, mulch keeps soil too moist and possible fungus could result from and outdoors mulch helps the soil retain and attract moisture.
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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.
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 and 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.
Living mulches include moss lawns and other ground covers.
English
Etymology
Probably from Middle English melsche, molsh (“soft”), from Old English melsċ, milisċ (“mellow; mild; sweet”, literally “honeyed”), probably from Proto-Germanic *mili (“honey”). Compare Icelandic milska (“a honeyed beverage”).
Pronunciation
- IPA(key): /mʌlt͡ʃ/
- Rhymes: -ʌltʃ
Noun
mulch (countable and uncountable
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