What is the effect of mulches on soil temperature?

Mulches play a significant role in regulating soil temperature. By covering the soil surface, they help insulate the soil, which helps maintain a more stable temperature. This is crucial for promoting healthy plant growth, as extreme fluctuations in soil temperature can negatively impact seed germination and root development.

During the warmer months, mulches can prevent the soil from overheating, while in cooler months, they can retain warmth in the soil. This dual function of mulches in both cooling and warming the soil helps create a more favorable environment for soil organisms and plant roots, ultimately supporting better overall soil health.

In contrast, the other options misrepresent the role of mulch. Some suggest that it only increases or decreases soil temperature, which overlooks its capacity to maintain a stable thermal environment. Others claim that mulches have no effect, which contradicts established knowledge of their insulating properties. Thus, the choice asserting that mulches help maintain soil temperature accurately reflects their benefits in garden and agricultural practices.