Description
Mulching may be conducted to protect soil surfaces from erosion. Mulches may also enhance environmental conditions for germination and seedling establishment by moderating temperatures, reducing evapotranspiration, improving soil fertility, and reducing weed establishment. Mulches may consist of organic and inorganic materials such as lime, bark, wood, municipal waste, crop residues, hay, straw, and plant materials harvested on-site. Consideration of mulch composition and application rates is essential to meet specific objectives.
Application
Land clearing equipment can be modified to prepare mulch from woody materials or herbaceous vegetation on rugged land. The equipment, terrain and materials being cleared determine the power required to pull the machine.
References / Additional Information
Crofts, K. 1990. Methods of mechanical plant control at the energy fuels mine in Northwest Colorado. 43rd Annual Report of the Vegetative Rehabilitation and Equipment Workshop (VREW); 1989 February 19-20; Billings, MT. Missoula, MT: USDA Forest Service Technology & Development Center: 33.
Dick, W.E. 1990. Madge Rotoclear machine. 43rd Annual Report of the Vegetative Rehabilitation & Equipment Workshop (VREW); 1989 February 19-20; Billings, MT. Missoula, MT: USDA Forest Service Technology and Development Center: 25-26.
Juarez, G. 1990. Mechanical plant control. 43rd Annual Report of the Vegetative Rehabilitation & Equipment Workshop (VREW); 1989 February 19-20; Billings, MT. Missoula, MT: USDA Forest Service Technology & Development Center: 68.