Code
A13
Sector
Agriculture
Other sector(s)
Urban
Forest
The complete description of the NWRM
Summary

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

·       to reduce weed growth

·       to enhance the visual appeal of the area

Mulching as NWRM is using organic material (e.g. bark, wood chips, grape pulp, shell nuts, green waste, leftover crops, compost, manure, straw, dry grass, leaves etc.) to cover the surface of the soil. It may be applied to bare soil, or around existing plants. Mulches of manure or compost will be incorporated naturally into the soil by the activity of worms and other organisms. The process is used both in commercial crop production and in gardening, and when applied correctly can dramatically improve the capacity of soil to store water.

 

Possible benefits with level
Benefits Level
BP2 - Slow runoff
High
BP6 - Increase infiltration and/or groundwater recharge
Low
BP7 - Increase soil water retention
Medium
BP10 - Reduce erosion and/or sediment delivery
Medium
ES6 - Groundwater/aquifer recharge
Medium
ES7 - Flood risk reduction
Medium
PO5 - Improving quantitative status
Low
PO8 - Prevent groundwater status deterioration
Low
PO9 - Take adequate and co-ordinated measures to reduce flood risks
Medium

Case studies per NWRM