Mulch

How is Mulch Produced?

The mulch currently produced at the Miramar Greenery is a 4-inch minus ground material. The mulch has undergone a high temperature pasteurization process that eliminates disease-causing pathogens and kills weed seeds. The result is high quality mulch with a number of useful applications.

• Miracle of Mulch Video (requires Windows Media Player)
• I know that mulch is free, but how and where do I pick it up?

Practical Benefits and Application of Mulch

Agricultural Use: Mulch can significantly reduce agricultural water costs. Research also shows that mulch can reduce the incidence of phytopthera (root-rot fungus) on avocado and citrus trees grown in infected soils. Spread the mulch around the base of plants and trees, taking care to keep the mulch from touching the stem or trunk. Spread mulch to a depth of 6-12 inches, at least out to the dripline of the plant.

Dust Control: Mulch applied over the surfaces of dirt roads and trails, or unvegetated open areas can reduce the incidence of vehicle or wind induced dust clouds. Spread a layer of mulch 2-3 inches deep over the surface of dirt roads or trails.

Erosion Prevention: Mulch reduces soil erosion by lessening the impact of heavy rainfall on steep slopes and by increasing the water-holding capacity of the soil. Tests conducted at the SDSU Soil Erosion Laboratory in 2002 indicated that Miramar Greenery mulch, applied to a depth of 4 inches, completely protected a 2:1 slope from erosion during a 10-year rain event and reduced runoff by 50%.

Landscape Topdressing: Mulch can be used as decorative topdressing to cover areas of bare soil between newly planted or established landscaping. Covering these areas with mulch can help reduce soil erosion, conserve water and suppress weed growth. Use the mulch around the base of plants and trees, taking care to keep the mulch from touching the stem or trunk. Spread mulch to a depth of 4-6 inches, at least out to the drip line of the plant.

Water Conservation: Using mulch as a ground cover over bare soil and around plants helps reduce water evaporation and the need for frequent irrigation.

Weed Suppression: Mulch application on bare soil hinders weed seed germination by blocking sunlight from reaching the soil surface. If weeds do germinate, they root in the mulch, making physical control easy.