JB Jardins SA (Genève)

Mulching flower beds with shredded branches Spread on the soil, shredded branches stimulate biological activity and the development of soil fungi. The lignin contained in the shreds decomposes into stable humus, which is highly effective in improving soil structure.

When the shredded material is obtained from young branches (less than 7cm in diameter), it is called RCW (Ramial Fragmented Wood). RCW contains rapidly degradable substances and supplies numerous mineral salts. The ideal time to make and spread RCW is autumn and winter, but it can also be used during the summer months.

The agronomic effects of RCW are rapidly visible on degraded soils. Its effect is particularly beneficial on well-drained, stony and fairly dry soils, as it also helps to limit evaporation of water from the soil in summer.

However, it should not be used in the vegetable garden, on small fruit crops or young plants, as it can trigger "nitrogen hunger", resulting in yellowing and reduced plant growth. In the vegetable garden, it should only be applied to paths, to prevent undesirable plants from establishing themselves.