Obviously warmth and water are important to me. This year it looks like water will be a particular concern. One way we can help our garden and landscape plants is to use mulch. Now is a good time to mulch since the soils are warm and moist.
Mulches are any materials used on the surface of the soil.
This broad definition could include organic materials such as wood chips, pine needles, straw, peat moss, corncobs and lawn clippings. Inorganic mulches would include river rock, ground tires, volcanic rock and synthetic fabrics. Generally organic mulches are preferred for plant growth because of their ability to improve soil structure and provide a more natural environment for good root growth and, therefore, good top growth of the plant. Mulches can also increase water penetration into the soil. Maintaining a uniform soil temperature by insulating the soil.