mulch

noun

ˈməlch How to pronounce mulch (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rack back mulch in a 12-inch diameter circle around the base of the plant. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 11 Dec. 2024 Both work best if the tree is given a rim of mulch along the dripline, or outer extent of the canopy, to serve as a saucer and direct water into the root zone. Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Dec. 2024 Renew mulch layers to conserve water, control weeds and provide cold protection. 59. Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Nov. 2024 Cover the soil around your plants with an inch or two of mulch or leaves. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 19 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for mulch 

Word History

Etymology

perhaps irregular from English dialect melch soft, mild

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mulch was in 1657

Dictionary Entries Near mulch

Cite this Entry

“Mulch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mulch. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on mulch

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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