Mulching: what it is, how to practice
NEWS · 24 January 2025
Mulching is a fundamental technique in agriculture, used for centuries to improve soil quality and optimise crop productivity.
Thanks to technological evolution and the commitment of leading companies such as Zanon, today it is possible to carry out mulching even more effectively, saving time and resources.
In this article we will explore what mulching is, how it is practised, its advantages and the innovative machinery that Zanon offers to support farmers in this activity.
What is mulching?
Mulching is an agronomic practice that consists of covering the soil with specific materials to protect it and improve its productivity. This protective layer can consist of organic materials, such as straw, bark or compost, or inorganic materials, such as plastic sheeting or geotextiles.
Another method of mulching involves the use of specialized crops, such as green manure, which is sown and then left to decompose on the ground. As well as providing a natural cover, this technique enriches the soil with nutrients and improves its structure.
The main purposes of mulching are:
- Reduce water evaporation: by retaining soil moisture, it decreases the need for irrigation;
- Control weed growth: the cover layer prevents the germination of weeds;
- Regulate soil temperature: by protecting roots from summer heat or winter cold;
- Increase soil fertility: especially by using organic materials that, as they degrade, release useful nutrients to the plants.
The main purposes of mulching are:
- Reduce water evaporation: by retaining soil moisture, it decreases the need for irrigation;
- Control weed growth: the cover layer prevents the germination of weeds;
- Regulate soil temperature: by protecting roots from summer heat or winter cold;
- Increase soil fertility: especially by using organic materials that, as they degrade, release useful nutrients to the plants.
How is mulching practised?
For best results, mulching requires careful planning and the use of appropriate materials. Commonly used materials are:
- Organic: straw, bark, leaves, compost. These materials are biodegradable and help improve soil fertility.
- Inorganic/Synthetic: plastic sheeting or geotextiles, ideal for long-term cultivation or to reduce maintenance.
How to achieve a natural mulch
Natural mulching, made from materials such as bark, compost, wood shavings or straw, is an environmentally friendly solution that not only helps protect the soil, but also improves its fertility through the gradual release of nutrients. To achieve a quality natural mulch, it is essential to start with well-prepared materials. For example, bark and shavings must be evenly shredded, while compost must be fully mature to prevent the proliferation of pathogens.
Main phases of mulching:
1. Soil preparation: the first phase consists of eliminating weeds or any plant residues present on the soil; then the soil is worked to make it soft and aerated, thus favouring water absorption and root growth.
For these operations, Zanon offers high-performance machinery such as tillers and hoes, which are ideal for breaking up clods and levelling the soil surface. Moreover, for complete preparation, it is advisable to level the soil to avoid water stagnation and to add soil conditioners or fertilisers, if necessary, to improve the fertility of the substrate.
2. Choice of material: select the type of cover according to the needs of the crops. Before applying the chosen material, it is important to check that the soil is well levelled and, if necessary, irrigated to ensure that the soil retains moisture as well as possible.
3. Distribution of the material: apply the material evenly, ensuring that it completely covers the desired surface. Distribution of the material can be carried out accurately and quickly using Zanon's mulchers, which engrave the substances favouring the release of nutrients into the soil, keeping it fresh and improving its fertility. These machines, combined with Zanon's multifunctional solutions, allow several operations to be integrated into a single phase, making the entire process even more efficient and professional.
4. Periodically monitor the condition of the mulch: monitoring the mulch is essential to guarantee its efficiency over time. During this phase, it is important to periodically check that the material remains well in place and that there are no tears in the synthetic sheeting or dispersion of organic materials, especially after intense climatic events such as heavy rain or winds. A regular check also makes it possible to take timely action to remove any weeds that may be growing at the edges of the cover or to repair damage caused by animals or equipment.
Technological evolution has simplified and improved mulching thanks to specific machinery that optimises the process and reduces working time.
With the support of Zanon equipment, every stage of the process, from initial preparation to post- mulching maintenance, becomes simpler, more efficient and professional.
If you are interested in finding out more about mulching machinery and other innovative solutions, contact our team of experts.