mulch

noun

ˈməlch 

ˈməlsh

: a protective covering (as of sawdust, compost, or paper) spread or left on the ground to reduce evaporation, maintain even soil temperature, prevent erosion, control weeds, enrich the soil, or keep fruit (such as strawberries) clean

mulch transitive verb

Examples of mulch in a Sentence

She spread some mulch around the plants.

Recent Examples on the Web

Also remove and discard the mulch around the base of plants and replace with a fresh layer. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 31 Oct. 2024

The materials are then re-purposed: Shredded foam and fibers as carpet padding, animal beds or insulation; wood as mulch and fuel; and springs as scrap steel, for example. —Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 20 Oct. 2024

Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the root zone to help the tree retain moisture. —Nicole Cobler, Axios, 17 Oct. 2024

Use inorganic mulches such as stones or gravel to mulch succulents, keeping the mulch several inches away from stems. —Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

perhaps irregular from English dialect melch soft, mild

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing mulch

• stubble mulch

Kids Definition

mulch

1 of 2 noun

ˈməlch

: a covering (as of straw or sawdust) spread over the ground to protect the roots of plants from heat, cold, or evaporation, prevent soil loss, control weeds, enrich the soil, or keep fruit (as strawberries) clean

mulch

2 of 2 verb

: to cover with mulch