Which mulch type is less likely to add nutrients to the soil but can improve moisture retention?

Which mulch type is less likely to add nutrients to the soil but can improve moisture retention?

• A. Organic mulch
• B. Mulch mats
• C. Inorganic mulch
• D. Compost

Answer: (C)

Mulch effectiveness comes down to whether the material will break down and feed the soil. Inorganic mulches stay largely inert and don’t decompose to release nutrients, so they’re unlikely to add anything to the soil. Their real benefit is reducing water loss from the soil surface and helping to stabilize soil temperature, which improves moisture retention. That’s why inorganic mulch best fits the description: it helps keep soil moist without contributing nutrients as it would if it were organic. Organic mulches and compost, on the other hand, decompose and enrich the soil with nutrients, though they also retain moisture.

Mulch effectiveness comes down to whether the material will break down and feed the soil. Inorganic mulches stay largely inert and don’t decompose to release nutrients, so they’re unlikely to add anything to the soil. Their real benefit is reducing water loss from the soil surface and helping to stabilize soil temperature, which improves moisture retention. That’s why inorganic mulch best fits the description: it helps keep soil moist without contributing nutrients as it would if it were organic. Organic mulches and compost, on the other hand, decompose and enrich the soil with nutrients, though they also retain moisture.