Mulch layer

What is a mulch layer?

 

       Een mulchlaag is een laag materiaal (vb. houthaksel/houtsnippers) die het ground level covered.

​

Advantages of a mulch layer

​

• Improve the water management:

  • Water infiltrationimproves.

  • Soil dries out less quickly.

  • Defeatempping of the soil is prevented.

 

• Improve the soil quality:

  • The organic matter content in the soil increases.

  • Soil life is stimulated.

  • The soil structure improves.

  • Soil erosion is prevented.

 

• Flatten from temperature extremes:

  • In colder periods, the soil is kept warmer.

  • In warmer periods, water evaporation is reduced.

 

• Minder weed growth

            

How to apply a mulch layer?

 

• A layer of wood chips of 8 to 12 cm thick is spread over the existing soil.

• Optionally, a border can be placed so that the mulch material remains in place in case of wind. Leaf litter can also remain here.

• Applying a layer of cardboard under the mulch layer ensures that weeds are even less likely to emerge.

​

What should you definitely not do?

 

• Apply a layer of mulch that is too thick, because then the oxygen balance in the soil is disturbed.

• Laying a root cloth, because then the exchange between mulch layer and soil is disrupted and plastic ends up in the soil.