Mulch

Mulch applied to the landscape is usually, but not exclusively, organic in nature. It may be permanent (e.g. plastic sheeting) or temporary (e.g. bark chips).

Usually applied to bare soil or around existing plants. Mulches of manure or compost will be incorporated naturally into the soil along with other organisms. Mulch is used both in commercial crop production and in gardening, and when applied correctly, can improve soil productivity.