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.
Adding a thick layer of organic mulch under the shrub will help the soil retain moisture during the high temperatures of summer. Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 12 Mar. 2026 Apply 3 to 4 inches of mulch around the plant, leaving space at the base of the bush. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 12 Mar. 2026 After fertilizing, reapply about 3 inches of mulch around your tree’s base and keep the mulch line at least 6 inches away from the tree’s trunk. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2026 Add 3 inches of mulch on top of the cardboard to keep it from peeking through. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mulch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mulch. Accessed 17 Mar. 2026.

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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