How mulching helps improve soil condition: tips for gardeners on how to increase crop yields
Mulching helps to create ideal conditions for plant growth, protect them from adverse factors and minimize the gardener's efforts.
Organic mulch in the form of straw, sawdust, tree bark and leaves is the most common and environmentally friendly way to cover the soil.
These materials are affordable, easy to use, and provide a regular supply of nutrients to the soil as they decompose.
Decomposition of organic mulch improves soil structure, increases its fertility and promotes the development of beneficial microorganisms.
Using straw or hay around cabbage and root crops helps retain moisture and prevent a crust from forming on the soil surface.
Inorganic mulch includes pebbles, crushed rock, and special films. These materials do not decompose, making them a more durable choice for those looking for long-term protection.
Agrofibre film, for example, is actively used to increase soil temperature in the spring, protecting young plants from frost and accelerating their growth.
Pebbles and gravel, in turn, help maintain a stable soil temperature, suppress weed growth and add aesthetics to the garden.
Grass mulch, made from grass clippings, is an instant way to improve soil health.
Mown grass can be used immediately after mowing, the main thing is to avoid using grass treated with herbicides.
This method not only helps to retain moisture in the soil and suppress weed growth, but also improves soil aeration through gradual decomposition and leaves the garden surface neat and tidy.
Compost is a real vitamin bomb for your garden.
Distributed over the beds, it serves as a powerful source of nutrients, helps retain moisture and improves soil structure.
The best practice is to spread compost on the soil surface in a layer of about 3-5 centimeters. This not only helps return nutrients, but also protects plant roots from temperature changes.
Few people know that in some regions cocoa bean husks are used for mulching.
This is not only an extremely effective natural material, but also a real aromatherapist for the gardener.
Chocolate shells retain moisture and maintain a favorable temperature.
Although it is not available to everyone, those who have tried it report a luxurious aroma and significant improvement in soil health.
Using mulch in your garden is a smart step to increasing yields and improving soil health.
Choose the right type of mulch based on the characteristics of your site and the crops you grow, and your efforts will pay off handsomely.
