 Mulch is one of the simplest tools for conserving soil moisture, improving soil tilth, and protecting Northern New Mexico ornamental and edible plantings from environmental shock. Basically, a mulch can be defined as any covering applied around plants to keep the soil from drying out.
There are two kinds of mulches: organic and inorganic. Payne's sells a variety of bagged organic and inorganic mulches at both our stores, and at POSY — Payne's Organic Soil Yard — we sell organic mulches in bulk for pickup or delivery. Here's some quick mulching info to get you started!
Organic mulches are usually composed of plant parts (bark, leaves, agricultural waste), either fresh or composted, whole, shredded or chipped. Organic mulches not only conserve soil moisture but also add nutrients to the soil as they break down over time. However, they require frequent reapplication throughout the growing season as they "shrink" owing to the action of the sunlight and soil microorganisms. In addition, lest they encourage the buildup of garden fungi that can damage roots, organic mulches must be kept several inches away from the bases of trees, shrubs, and perennials.
Inorganic mulches can take the form of rocks, stones, or gravel of various sizes; flagstones; bricks; or sheeting made of extruded plastic or woven fabric. Inorganic mulches can work very well to conserve soil moisture, and unlike organic mulches, most last for a number of seasons before requiring renewal. Furthermore, xeriscape plants — plants naturally adapted to dry soils, such as lavender, cacti, and Russian sage — often prefer inorganic mulches, such as stones or gravel, to organic mulches, owing to the danger of moisture collecting in organic mulch and creating conditions around root zones that would encourage the growth of harmful soil fungi. However, inorganic mulches do not add any nutrients to the soil.
Both organic and inorganic mulches, if applied properly, will:
- reduce evaporation
- moderate soil temperatures
- help control weeds
- eliminate soil crusting, allowing water, air and nutrients to penetrate better
- slow erosion
- keep plants cleaner
Organic mulches will:
- break down over time and provide nutrients to the soil
- increase the population of both beneficial soil microorganisms and certain insect pests, such as sowbugs
For a chart listing the main types of mulches, their rate of application, benefits and drawbacks, click here.
This information is in part adapted from a flyer produced and distributed by The Santa Fe City-County Water Conservation Committee and Sangre de Cristo Water Board. |
How To... 
