Mulch Iowa: A Guide to the Benefits of Mulch and Why you should use mulch produced in Iowa, December 17, 2003

Mulch helps to recreate the organic layer and soil structure of a wooded environment, which benefits your trees and shrubs... • Helps maintain even soil temperature in the roots by keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. • Promotes plant growth. • Controls weeds. • Conserves soil moisture, meaning you use less water. • Improves soil structure and quality over the root area. • Protects from mechanical damage (mowers, string trimmers, etc.) • Helps beautify the new planting.