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

But then, Ellenby, 76, dug into the mulch surrounding his precious plants and found salvation in the form of tiny, green sprouts. — Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 24 July 2026

The playground is poured rubber, instead of mulch, which is an accessibility upgrade, and also built so that the upper level can be accessed by a ramp allowing kids with mobility needs to access both areas of the playground. — Jordi Lippe-McGraw, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 July 2026

Natural colored twine blends in quite well with the foliage, mulch, and flowers. — Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 July 2026

Keep the soil consistently moist and add mulch to help retain moisture during the summer heat. — Alexandra Kelly, Martha Stewart, 21 July 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