Organic mulch applied in the very early spring can:

Organic mulch applied in the very early spring can:

• A. Keep the soil warm
• B. Keep the soil cool
• C. Increase soil salinity
• D. Hinder soil moisture retention

Answer: (A)

Organic mulch provides insulation for the soil, moderating temperature fluctuations. In very early spring, when nights are still cold, this insulating layer reduces heat loss from the soil to the chilly air, helping the soil stay warmer than it would be without mulch. That warmth supports earlier root activity and seed germination as plants begin to awaken. Mulch also helps conserve soil moisture by reducing evaporation, which complements the warmer soil by keeping roots hydrated during the transition to active growth. It does not raise soil salinity, and it does not serve to cool the soil in this context; its primary effect here is to keep the soil warmer and more moisture-stable.

Organic mulch provides insulation for the soil, moderating temperature fluctuations. In very early spring, when nights are still cold, this insulating layer reduces heat loss from the soil to the chilly air, helping the soil stay warmer than it would be without mulch. That warmth supports earlier root activity and seed germination as plants begin to awaken. Mulch also helps conserve soil moisture by reducing evaporation, which complements the warmer soil by keeping roots hydrated during the transition to active growth. It does not raise soil salinity, and it does not serve to cool the soil in this context; its primary effect here is to keep the soil warmer and more moisture-stable.