Mulching is the practice of covering the soil around plants with a layer of material, such as wood chips, straw, or leaves. This layer helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, creating a healthier environment for plants to grow. By preventing weeds from taking over, mulching allows your plants, like flowers and vegetables, to thrive without competition for nutrients. In addition to its protective benefits, mulching can also improve soil quality over time. As the mulch breaks down, it adds organic matter to the soil, enriching it with nutrients that benefit plant growth. This makes mulching a simple yet effective way to support a thriving garden or landscape.