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a few inches tall. Leaves are adapted to larger crops and vines, and may be applied when the plants are 8 to 12 inches tall.
Sawdust or shredded bark from the inside of a mulch pile may go through anaerobic decomposition and become very acid, with a pH of about 3.0, and a pungent odor. Such material is very toxic to plants.
Weeds which grow up through the mulch should be pulled when they are about 2 inches tall, when the soil is moist after a rain or irrigation. Do not cultivate or hoe a mulched garden. This would destroy the effectiveness of the mulch and bring weeds up near the surface where they will germinate.
Organic materials which are commonly used as mulch, such as leaves, or lawn clippings, have little or no fertilizer value. Also, they usually have no effect on soil acidity. When organic matter is plowed into the soil, it improves the structure and increases the amount of nutrients it can retain. If large quantities are incorporated into the soil, additional fertilizer may be needed to avoid nitrogen deficiency.
Plastic and paper mulch
Black plastic, kraft paper or newpapers may be used as a mulch to reduce the loss of soil moisture by evaporation. Such mulches will prevent weed growth, especially grass type weeds which spread by rhizomes. Crops may be planted in rows between strips of mulch, or plants like cabbage, cucumber, or tomato may be set in holes punched through the plastic or paper. Be sure an adequate amount of fertilizer has been broadcast and worked into the soil before the plastic or paper is applied. Vine crops such as muskmelons and summer squash grow especially well with this type of mulch.
Watering the garden
Vegetables need about 1 inch of water each week to promote maximum yields and high quality. Moisture will be conserved by controlling weeds and using mulch, but irrigation may be necessary during periods of drought. Give the garden a good soaking about once a week when the soil becomes dry. This is more effective than frequent light sprinklings. Rotary, or oscillating sprinklers or perforated plastic hose may be used.
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