MULCHING......... one of stages of setting up plantain farm

What is Mulching?

A mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of an area of soil. Its purpose is any or all of the following: to conserve moisture. to improve the fertility and health of the soil.

Benefits of Proper Mulching

·       Helps reduce soil moisture loss through evaporation

·       Helps control weed germination and growth

·         Insulates soil, protecting roots from extreme summer and winter temperatures

·       Can improve soil biology, aeration, structure (aggregation of soil particles), and drainage over time

·       Can improve soil fertility as certain mulch types decompose

·        Inhibits certain plant diseases

·       Reduces the likelihood of tree damage from “weed whackers” or the dreaded “lawn mower blight”

·        Gives planting beds a uniform, well-cared-for look

Organic mulches include wood chips, pine needles, hardwood and softwood bark, cocoa hulls, leaves, compost mixes, and a variety of other products usually derived from plants. 

Organic mulches decompose in the landscape at different rates depending on the material, climate, and soil microorganisms present. Those that decompose faster must be replenished more often. Because the decomposition process improves soil quality and fertility, many arborists and other landscape professionals consider that characteristic a positive one, despite the added maintenance.

 Therefore newly established plantains which receive only fertilizer will produce a high yield only in the first year. In the second year the yield will drop because the organic matter will have decomposed.

To compensate for this continuous decrease in the amount of organic matter, the field needs mulch from plants and/or manure from animals. 

There are many sources of mulch. It can be either carried into the field or produced between the plants; but to be effective, it should cover the soil completely. 

Once the field is mulched, weeds are controlled and the topsoil is protected against heavy rainfall and intense sun- shine. Poultry, pigs and cows produce suitable manure which is applied only at the base of the mat.