What is a key benefit of mulching?

Mulching is a horticultural practice that involves covering the soil surface with organic or inorganic materials. One of the key benefits of mulching is that it effectively reduces soil compaction and erosion. When mulch is applied, it acts as a barrier that protects the soil from the impact of rainfall and wind, which can lead to erosion. This protective layer also helps to maintain soil structure, preventing compaction caused by direct foot traffic or heavy rainfall.

Additionally, mulching conserves soil moisture by reducing evaporation, which further contributes to healthy soil structure and helps in maintaining a stable environment for plant roots. By minimizing erosion and compaction, mulching ultimately supports healthier plant growth and enhances the overall ecosystem of the garden or landscape.

The other options do not encapsulate the primary benefits associated with mulching. Increasing plant height may be related to overall plant health, but it is not a direct benefit of mulching itself. Promoting weed growth contradicts the function of mulch, which actually suppresses weeds by blocking sunlight and preventing seed germination. Attracting beneficial insects can occur depending on the type of mulch used, but it is not a universal advantage across all mulching practices like erosion and compaction reduction.