Mulch Your Fruit Trees!Linda Bergeson Mulching is an easy way to
cut down on water loss by plants and soil, as well as to slowly
add nutrients back into the soil. Mulches come in organic and
non-organic forms; and they affect soil acidity, water retention
ability, and nutrient levels—all things that are important to
good plant health. Healthy plants are best equipped to survive
the drought conditions that we often have. When considering
whether or not to mulch around your plants or trees, some
factors to consider are the following: Cost: What is the least
expensive mulch available in your area? You might live next to a
dairy, stable, or chicken farm, which could provide a very cost-
effective manure. In the Willamette Valley, straw is an easily
obtainable mulch. Rice and buckwheat hulls are sometimes
available, while most people have a ready source of grass
clippings or leaves. Soil Acidity: Whatever you put on your soil
will affect its acidity later on. Mulches that are acid include
oak leaves, peat moss, and