Limitation of Organic Mulching

Mulches can keep the soil too moist, restricting oxygen in the root zone on poorly drained soils. If mulch is applied close to or in contact with the stem, trapped moisture creates an environment conducive to development of diseases and pests. Many organic type of mulches also encourage and provide refuge or breeding locations for snails, slugs, mice, etc. that may attack the plants. Certain types of mulches such as hay and straw contain seeds that may become weeds.

Disadvantages:

• Heavy mulching over a period of years may result in a build-up of soil over the crown area of plants.
• The cost of some materials can be a drawback to large-scale mulching.
• Also, some mulch are not readily available.
• When using sawdust and woodchips as mulch, nitrogen starvation sometimes occurs.