Garden Mulches/Films

Mulch Reduces Evaporation

An organic mulch, such as dead leaves, can do many important things to help improve plant environment. Mulches can decrease the amount of water lost through evaporation, keep the soil cooler than if it was exposed to the sun, keep the soil porous, improve aeration and infiltration, and control weeds.

Organic mulches are most effective during the early stages of plant growth. If a plant canopy establishes itself, the effect of a mulch conserving soil moisture becomes very small. Be sure not to put down mulches too early, due to the fact that they might not allow the soil to warm up as well.

University of Virginia mulch site:
http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/envirohort/426-724/426-724.html

 

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