Description: If you have a garden and you're keen to grow your own food you might have a problem with weeds. If so, you can use mulch. Mulch is made up of organic material like tree bark, straw or leaves and is used to cover (mulch) the ground to prevent weeds from growing. Mulch also helps retain moisture in the soil by preventing evaporation and regulating soil temperature. Another benefit is that as this organic material decomposes, it feeds the soil and keeps it healthy.