Mulching means covering the ground with a layer of loose material such as compost, manure, straw, dry grass, leaves or crop residues. Green vegetation is not normally used as it can take a long time to decompose and can attractpests and fungal diseases. Mulches have several effects on the soil which help to improve plant growth: • Decreasing water loss due to evaporation • Reducing weed growth by reducing the amount of light reaching the soil • Preventing soil erosion • Increasing the number of micro-organisms in the top soil • Adding nutrients to the soil and improving soil structure • Adding organic matter to the soil Alternative mulching materials include black plastic sheeting or cardboard. However obviously these materials do not add nutrients to the soil or improve its structure.