What is the benefit of using mulch in ornamental and turf management?

Using mulch in ornamental and turf management provides several important benefits, making it a valuable practice for maintaining healthy landscapes. One of the primary advantages is its ability to suppress weeds. By covering the soil, mulch physically blocks sunlight, which is necessary for weed germination and growth. This suppression minimizes competition for resources between weeds and desirable plants.

Additionally, mulch helps retain soil moisture by reducing evaporation. This is particularly beneficial during hot and dry periods, as it allows less frequent watering while keeping the soil environment conducive for plant roots.

Regulating soil temperature is another key benefit of mulch. It acts as an insulator, keeping the soil cooler in the heat of summer and warmer during cold spells. This stabilization of soil temperature helps create optimal conditions for plant growth, promoting healthy root development and overall plant vigor.

The other options do not accurately reflect the benefits of mulch. These include attracting pests, which typically contradicts the aim of using mulch; increasing soil compaction, which can harm root growth and reduce air exchange in the soil; and limiting water drainage, which would negatively affect plant health rather than support it.