Mulched soil retains moisture for longer periods due to less evapotranspiration. Mulching prevents weed growth, thus saving water.

Mulching provides a layer acting as a barrier breaking the fall of rainwater and therefore lessening the force of water impact on the soil. Soil erosion is also reduced due to less water run-off and an increase of rainwater infiltration.

Mulching provides a protective layer, decreasing exposure of soil to weather elements such as wind and extreme temperatures. This promotes moderate soil temperatures and moisture content, which in turn encourage earthworm activity.

There is increasing pressure on producers to reduce their use of herbicides these days. Mulching provides an environmentally friendly and cost-saving solution for controlling weeds.

Mulch acts as a barrier, limiting sunlight finding its way to stimulate weed germination. Insufficient level of sunlight can cause weed seeds to remain dormant or die after germination. Suppression of weeds contributes to higher yields in fruit, flower, and crop production, by decreasing root competition for nutrients.

Improved soil conditions promote root growth, and in turn have a positive effect on vegetative growth. Studies conducted by Baxter (1970) on peach and apple trees in Australia showed up to 63% improvement in mulched trees.

Acting as a barrier between your soil and the harsh sun, organic mulch controls and stabilizes soil temperatures to ensure healthy crop growth.

A layer of mulch keeps nutrients from being washed away. Organic mulch can release nutrients into the soil as the organic material decomposes. Studies carried out on apples found that mulching improves fruit size as well as calcium and potassium concentration. Studies have found that mulch also improves the absorption of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from the soil.

With improved soil biology, the spreading of roots through a larger soil volume increases the absorption of nutrients, which leads to an increased yield. Studies have found that mulching improves average fruit size and a high-return bloom in the consecutive season.

Applying organic mulch increases the organic matter in the soil. Mulching prevents soil compaction and improves the porosity of soil by improving water infiltration. Higher soil porosity is important for the absorption of nutrients, as well as earthworm activity. By increasing earthworm activity, the structure and fertility of the soil are improved. Soil fertility is improved by worm castings that are richer than the surrounding soil. These castings contain nutrients that are more effectively absorbed by plants. Burrows caused by earthworm activity create passages for air, water, and roots. Earthworms mix the soil as they create burrows, soil organic matter, and a humus layer.