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Mulched Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mulched

[mʌltʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

gardening method

Mulched is the past tense of mulch, which refers to the practice of applying a layer of material over the soil's surface to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. This method is commonly used in gardening and landscaping to enhance plant growth and reduce the need for watering.

Synonyms

blanketed, covered, layered.

Examples of usage

  • She mulched the vegetable garden to keep the soil moist.
  • The landscaper mulched around the trees to prevent weed growth.
  • They mulched the flower beds to conserve water during the dry season.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Gardening

  • Mulching helps retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering.
  • Organic mulches, such as wood chips or straw, break down over time, enriching the soil with nutrients.
  • In addition to improving soil health, mulching also suppresses weeds and can help regulate soil temperature.

Environmental Impact

  • Using mulch can help improve biodiversity by creating a hospitable environment for beneficial insects and earthworms.
  • Certain mulching practices can reduce runoff and erosion, helping to keep waterways clean.
  • By recycling yard waste as mulch, gardeners contribute to sustainable practices, minimizing landfill waste.

Cultural Practices

  • Many cultures have traditionally used mulching techniques, such as adding straw or leaves, to enhance crop yields.
  • In permaculture, mulching is a key method to create a self-sustaining garden ecosystem, emphasizing harmony with nature.

Economic Benefits

  • Homeowners who mulch their gardens can save money on water bills by reducing irrigation needs.
  • Gardens with mulch tend to require less maintenance, lowering the costs associated with weeding and soil management.

Origin of 'mulched'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'mulch' comes from the Middle English word 'molch', meaning 'to soften' or 'to make more fertile'.
  • Related roots can be traced back to Old English 'melcan', which means 'to crumble', linking the process of mulching with improving soil texture.

The word 'mulch' comes from the Middle English word 'melch', which is thought to derive from the Old English 'melcan', meaning to soften or to relax. Historically, mulching has been a common agricultural practice dating back to ancient civilizations, where farmers used organic materials to cover the soil. Over the centuries, various materials such as straw, leaves, and grass clippings have been utilized for mulching, as they provide numerous benefits to soil health and crop yield. In the modern gardening context, the term 'mulched' has become widely used, signifying the ongoing importance of this technique in sustainable landscaping and horticulture.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,407 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.