pacciamatura

Pacciamatura is a horticultural practice that involves covering the soil surface around plants with a layer of material, known as mulch, to create a protective and nourishing environment for the roots. The technique is used in gardens, allotments, and agricultural settings to conserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure over time.

Materials commonly used include organic mulches such as straw, hay, shredded leaves, wood chips or bark, compost, and grass clippings. Inorganic mulches include plastic sheeting, landscape fabrics, and pebbles or gravel. Organic mulches gradually decompose, adding organic matter to the soil, whereas inorganic mulches mainly provide immediate surface coverage and weed suppression.

Application and practices vary with climate and crop type. A typical mulch layer ranges from about 3 to 10 centimeters in depth; in very dry regions, closer to the higher end helps retain moisture, while in cooler regions a thinner layer may be sufficient. It is important to keep mulch away from stems and trunks to prevent rot and pests, and to avoid covering the crowns of young plants. Mulch should be maintained and replenished as it decomposes or migrates due to weather and gardening activity.

Benefits of pacciamatura include reduced evaporation, moderated soil temperatures, fewer weeds, improved soil structure and biodiversity, and lower erosion. Drawbacks can include slower soil warming in spring, potential harboring of pests or diseases if the material is damp or contaminated, and the need for periodic replacement of organic mulches.

The practice is common in sustainable and organic gardening and can be adapted to various crops and climates. It is typically part of broader soil management and weed control strategies.