Qualified Applicator License (QAL) Right of Way Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Prep Guide to Ensure Your Success!

Organic mulch consists of natural materials that decompose over time, returning nutrients to the soil. Bark and wood chips are prime examples of organic mulch because they are derived from trees and plants. As they break down, they enrich the soil with organic matter, improve water retention, and help regulate soil temperature.

In contrast, materials like gravel, plastic sheeting, and rubber tires do not have the same benefits. Gravel is inorganic and primarily used for drainage and ground cover without improving soil quality. Plastic sheeting serves as a barrier to weeds and moisture, but it does not decompose and thus provides no nutritional benefit. Rubber tires, while sometimes repurposed for landscaping, do not break down in a way that contributes to soil health and are considered a form of inorganic mulch. Hence, bark and wood chips stand out as the example of organic mulch in this context.