All About Mulch

When it's hot outside moisture evaporates though the soil at an amazing rate. The best way to conquer this issue is with mulch around the root areas to help slow down the water loss.

Mulch can lower the soil temperature during the hot summer months.

Inorganic mulch (such as the crushed granite found all over desert gardens in AZ, CA, NV and NM) cools the soil and slows down the rate of evaporation. Many desert natives such as succulents thrive near large, rocky areas which provide the needed coolant for their root systems. Oftentimes it only takes a few degrees under those rocks to keep a plant thriving.

Organic mulch (such as old leaves, spent flowers and tree trimmings) cools the surface of the soil just as well as using inorganic mulch, but with an added benefit: this old plant material is rich in nutrients, which when broken down is like healthy compost for the plants growing around it.

If you are ever concerned about the longevity of certain plants in your garden surviving our brutal summers, think about adding a layer of mulch. It could be the last line of defense for your overheated landscape.