Before any gardener digs into the soil or plants a seed, they should understand how mulch works and what it can do for their gardens. Mulch is a soil cover which comes in many different forms and is used to help the soil maintain its moisture, control the growth of weeds, speed plant growth, and even reduce insect damage. Before using Mulch Hartford CT gardeners should understand the various types. It can be organic, and made entirely from natural materials, or synthetic. Mulch may be created in the backyard or bought by the sheet at garden supplies.
Mulch works by providing a covering that protects soil from climate damage while helping it to retain moisture. Mulch keeps sunlight from getting to weeds, which stops them from growing. Some mulch contains insect-repelling ingredients. Mulch made from natural materials can feed plants, since it breaks down and becomes fertilizer. It can even enhance photosynthesis, which speeds plant growth. Organic mulch typically consists of natural materials such as leaves, shredded newspaper, grass, or other safe materials. Fully decomposed material is called compost and gardeners can easily create their own compost pile just by continually adding materials and allowing them to decompose. Biodegradable organic sheets are often laid down in larger gardens. Even rocks and gravel can service as mulch, since they protect soil from temperature extremes.
Synthetic materials can also be used as mulch. Farmers, for instance, lay plastic sheets on top of soil to protect it. They typically use special equipment and tractors, but when choosing synthetic Mulch in Hartford CT, home gardeners can easily do this by hand. Not all mulch is used to feed the soil. Landscapers traditionally use it to decorate. This type of mulch will often consist of materials such as pine bark or wood chips, or even recycled rubber tires. Although wood chips can eventually provide some nourishment to soil as they decompose, they are primarily used for effect. Decorative mulch does protect the soil and stop weed growth, but is not primarily designed to feed or nourish plant life. Its basic purpose is to keep the planted area neat and attractive and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
