Facilitators-Handbook-For-Permaculture

120 Facilitator’s Handbook for Permaculture Workshops

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Presentation : Mulching for soil improvement

Method : Facilitator presentation

Tools : Diagrams of mulch and non-mulch

References : PC Book MOD 4 - Healthy Soil

Objective    :  Participants    understand  what    mulch   is  and the benefits    of  using   it

In natural forests, leaves, rotting trees, materials, animal manure, and even

dead animals all make a cover of “mulch” on the ground, like a skin.

This skin is continually being added to and continuously decomposing.

Mulch (skin) provides:

• Nutrients and organic matter for the soil which is used by plants and trees.


• Continuous food supply for plants and soil biota in your garden.


• Greatly reduced amount of weed growth.


• Moderated soil temperature, which creates a healthier environment for plants.


• Balanced pH in the soil.


• Improved soil structure which makes the soil easier to dig.


• Water retention in the soil.


• Natural protection from the soil drying in the sun.


• Natural protection from erosion caused by the rain.


• Natural protection from drying and erosion caused by wind.

By mirroring nature, we can make and use mulch to dramatically improve soil health.