A mulch is a layer of material applied to the surface of soil. Reasons for applying mulch include conservation of soil moisture, improving fertility and health of the soil, reducing weed growth, and enhancing the visual appeal of the area.
Bark chips applied as mulch
Rubber mulch nuggets in a playground. The white fibers are nylon cords, which are present in the tires from which the mulch is made.
Shredded wood used as mulch. This type of mulch is frequently dyed for aesthetic reasons.
Pine needles used as mulch. Also called "pinestraw" in the southern US.
Weed control is a type of pest control, which attempts to stop or reduce growth of weeds, especially noxious weeds, with the aim of reducing their competition with desired flora and fauna including domesticated plants and livestock, and in natural settings preventing non native species competing with native species.
A field of beets being weeded in Colorado, United States, in 1972
Tools used for amateur weeding include spades and gloves
Weeds are removed manually in large parts of India.
Weed control through tilling with hoes, circa 1930-40s