Mulching
The process of applying various substances as a covering for soil above the roots of trees and plants, in order to prevent evaporation, and so preserve a uniform degree of heat and moisture. Mulching is also largely practised for other reasons, more particularly that of supplying a top-dressing of rich manure to established plants, so that its nutritive properties may be washed down by rain or artificial watering. All recently transplanted trees and shrubs, more especially fruit-trees, are greatly assisted by being provided with a Mulching of litter, half-rotted manure, leaves, or something of a similar description. This acts beneficially in retaining warmth and moisture, thus considerably neutralising the evil effects of drought, extreme cold or heat. Straw chaff, short litter, cocoa-nut fibre, and spent tan, are excellent non-conductors, where enriching properties are not required. For plants or trees needing help in summer, to perfect their flowers or fruits, a Mulching of fresh horse-dung, or good rotten manure, laid on the surface of the soil, and well watered occasionally, will often prove of immense permanent benefit.