Mulching new plants provides all of the following benefits except?

• A. Control temperature fluctuations
• B. Stops insects
• C. Aid in water retention
• D. Discourages weed growth

Answer: (B)

Mulching new plants mainly stabilizes the root environment: it moderates soil temperatures, helps retain soil moisture, and suppresses weed growth by blocking sunlight. These benefits come from the physical and moisture-retaining properties of a layer of mulch around the base of the plant.

However, mulch does not inherently stop insects. While it can indirectly influence pest pressure, organic mulch can even harbor some insects (like slugs and certain beetles) or create a moist, shaded habitat that pests may thrive in. So, unlike the other benefits, insect control is not a guaranteed or universal outcome of applying mulch.