8. Marvelous Mulch

Interpretive Intent: The use of mulches is a very important aspect of water conservation. Mulching allows moisture applied to the plant material to remain in the ground, protected from the effects of evaporation. Mulching also keeps the temperature down at the root level, helping the plants to survive summer heat. In the winter, mulching helps keep the extreme cold out as well.

Exhibit Design: This exhibit will display different types of common mulch such as decomposed granite, rock, wood chips, and other organic materials. The mulches will be displayed on the ground in pop-up squares to show visitors what different mulches look like in the landscape. Taller bins dispersed between this grided mulch landscape hold samples for hands-on inspection.

A plant will be placed at the corner of each mulch area to show the visual effect of mulches beneath plant material.

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