Why is mulch used in landscaping?

Question

Why is mulch used in landscaping?

Answer 1

Mulch helps keep roots cool in summer and warm in winter. It keeps weeds down and helps hold in moisture. A "moat" of mulch also protects urban trees from cuts and nicks caused by lawn-mowers and weed-whippers. Studies have shown that wood-chip mulch can nearly double the rate of tree growth during the few years after planting. Mulch even fertilizes as it breaks down.

Acting as a surface insulation, mulch:

moderates extremes in temperature

conserves moisture

controls weeds

and prevents erosion

As a soil amendment, mulch:

improves soil aggregation and granulation

provides habitat and sustenance for beneficial soil organisms

improve the efficiency by which plants take up fertilizers

increase water absorption and retention

and prevents soil compaction and improve aeration

With means of beautifying, mulch:

makes surface areas more attractive

makes surface areas more usable for paths, play and sitting areas

makes landscaped areas easier to maintain

Under roses it helps keep down diseases caused by splashing water.

Answer 2

It helps the soil keep moisture and helps control weeds

Answer 3

lunar26 hit it right on the head...I might add it makes the area look clean and fresh

Answer 4

Not only does the mulch keep the soil moist but as it degrades it enriches the soil, putting nutrients back in as well.also w/ the colored mulches they are making these days it makes for more diverse landscaping opportunities.

Answer 5

Luna had it partly right, but it is also used to retain heat (some types like stones) keeps the soil cool like bark.

for looks, depending on type used can make a house sell better for instance.

some are used in paths to keep you from being muddy or to designate the path.

Better growth of plants and trees as it retains moisture better.

Good way to use up grass clippings, some rent a mulcher to get rid of debris in the yard like old branches or prunings from trees and plants.

Cinders are used for mulch to keep snails out of that area.

to make the soil more acidic like using shredded oak leaves or pine needles

to make the soil more alkaline using maple leaves.

Mulching the grass with a mulching lawnmower will encourage worms that will aerate the lawn.

All I can think now.