mulch

noun

ˈməlch 

ˈməlsh

: a protective covering (as of sawdust, compost, or paper) spread or left on the ground to reduce evaporation, maintain even soil temperature, prevent erosion, control weeds, enrich the soil, or keep fruit (such as strawberries) clean

mulch transitive verb

Examples of mulch in a Sentence

She spread some mulch around the plants.

Recent Examples on the Web

The original Grass—my signature scent in ninth grade—was funky and vegetal, almost mulch-like. — Rhoda Feng, New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2026

Add a soil blend of compost or potting soil mixed with fine mulch between the layers for best results. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 1 Sep. 2026

Use mulch with organic matter to retain moisture and protect the roots. — The Spruce, 1 Sep. 2026

Just be sure to keep mulch lines at least 1 to 2 inches away from plant stems to reduce the risk of rot. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

perhaps irregular from English dialect melch soft, mild

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing mulch

• stubble mulch

Rhymes for mulch

• gulch

Kids Definition

mulch

1 of 2 noun

ˈməlch

: a covering (as of straw or sawdust) spread over the ground to protect the roots of plants from heat, cold, or evaporation, prevent soil loss, control weeds, enrich the soil, or keep fruit (as strawberries) clean

mulch

2 of 2 verb

: to cover with mulch