# mulch

/ˈməɫtʃ/ (US) · /mˈʌltʃ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mulch
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. soil covering

noun · CEFR B2

a material like bark, straw, or compost spread on the ground to protect plants and keep the soil moist.

For teachers: a layer of material, typically organic, applied to the surface of an area of soil to suppress weeds and reduce evaporation.

- We spread a thick layer of wood mulch around the roses to keep the weeds away.
- Applying organic mulch not only regulates soil temperature during the winter months but also gradually improves the soil structure as it decomposes.

### 2. to apply covering

verb · CEFR B2

to cover the ground around plants with a layer of material.

For teachers: to apply a layer of mulch to an area of ground. Transitive use requiring a direct object.

- If you mulch your garden in the spring, you will not have to water the plants as often.
- The landscaper recommended mulching the flower beds immediately after planting to ensure the young perennials remained hydrated during the heatwave.

### 3. to shred into pieces

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

to chop or grind garden waste into small pieces to be used on the soil.

For teachers: to reduce organic matter to a fine consistency suitable for use as a soil covering.

- The lawnmower has a special blade that mulches the grass as it cuts.
- Modern agricultural machinery can mulch crop residues directly into the field, returning vital nutrients to the earth without the need for separate composting.

## Examples

- I spread mulch around the base of the rose bushes.
- The gardener applied a thick layer of shredded bark mulch to protect the vegetable beds from the summer heat.
- While organic mulches eventually decompose and enrich the soil, inorganic options like gravel provide a more permanent solution for pathways where aesthetic appeal is prioritized over nutrient cycling.

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