The Need To Mulch

Applying Baileys Moisture Mulch does a lot more than make the garden look great, it also helps to cool soil as well as the garden, reduces evaporation, increases soil water retention, suppresses weed germination, allows rain infiltration and adds organic matter to existing garden areas. 'Bare soil is dead soil' is one of Mother Nature's guiding principles.  Our scorching summer sun can burn the vital soil carbon from uncovered topsoil, further reducing its fertility.  Mulch cools the soil which benefits plants and soil living organisms.

What makes Bailey's mulch different? 

It is composted over an 8 week cycle, screened to achieve a chunky texture, complies with the Australian Standard for Composted Soil Conditioners and Mulch, it's versatile, long lasting and dark brown in colour. Moisture Mulch contains no artificial colourings.  As it is made from selected waste materials, mainly pine bark and manure, it stops these materials being sent to landfill. 

Being an organic material, it will eventually be taken into the earth by soil borne organisms and converted to humus. This benefits soil living organisms, which are the real drivers of successful plant growth. This mulch also bears the stamp of Smart Approved and Waterwise Approved Product. Because it has a stable pH it can help extreme soil types to move toward a more neutral pH.  This is of benefit when used with acid as well as alkaline soils. I like the fact that it is formulated right here in WA to suit our unique soils and climate. 

What are the differences between composted and non-composted mulch?

The benefit of having a composted material is that it won't draw down nitrogen; which can lead to stunting and yellowing of your plants. There is an epidemic of tree diseases around WA, some of which can be spread through the use of un-composted mulch. Composting pasteurises the material killing off the pathogens but at the same time allowing beneficial organisms to survive and thrive in a benign environment. 

Are there different types of mulch you should use for garden, landscaping, pots, planters, trees and shrubs as well as vegetables?

Chunky mulch like Moisture Mulch is a great choice for garden beds and all landscape areas. This also works well when placed around the top of pots and garden planter boxes. 

Use Baileys Soil Improver as mulch in the vegetable garden as it quickly becomes soil for the following crop.  In doing so it raises the organic carbon content of your high production soil making it rich, fertile and highly productive.