Mulch

Reduce water evaporation by up to 70%

Mulch is material added in a layer over your garden soil. It reduces water loss by as much as 70% by protecting soil from the drying effects of the sun and wind. It's also a smart use of organic household waste.

Benefits of mulching

A thick (15-20cm) layer of mulch will:

• reduce water loss from the soil while still allowing water to penetrate
• reduce soil erosion
• suppress weed growth
• moderate soil temperature
• improve soil structure and the health of plants over time
• reduce the need for chemical sprays
• create a natural appearance
• provide a soft surface for playgrounds and paths
• reduce the amount of plant material going to landfill.

Mulch material

• Pine or eucalypt wood chips.
• Lawn clippings, prunings, leaves and plant material.
• Sawdust, straw and hay.
• Gravel, stones and similar inorganic material can be used as ground cover around plants in the garden to reduce evaporation and weeds.

Mulch money-back

The Living Victoria Water Rebate Program (link opens a new website) offers rebates on a range of water efficient products and appliances, including mulch, compost bins and rainwater tanks.

Mulching tips

• Compost organic mulch before you use it to increase its nutrient value. The process also destroys weed seeds and plant pathogens.
• Leave the grass clippings on the lawn for mulch when you mow. Set the mower to a tall setting so that only the top third of grass is cut and mow only when it's dry so clippings can filter to the soil without clumping.
• Keep weeds, pet faeces or material that has been treated with weed killer or pesticides out of mulch.
• Mature mulch for a few weeks before applying around plants - fresh material can rob the soil of nitrogen. Use one-part materials high in nitrogen (compost, worm castings) to ten-parts mulch.
• Don't apply mulch close to the stems and trunks of plants.
• Ensure the mulch you buy has been produced in line with Australian Standards - look for the 'five ticks' logo.

 Download a brochure on  mulching (610KB).

Top | Last updated 15/02/2013