The effect of mulching on soil carbon stocks in forest soils.

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Written by

Mmapaseka Pertunia Matabane

Neftaly Arts Insight

Neftaly: The Effect of Mulching on Soil Carbon Stocks in Forest Soils
Introduction
Forests play a vital role in capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) and storing it in vegetation and soil. Among the many techniques used to enhance soil carbon storage in forest ecosystems, mulching stands out as a low-cost, nature-based solution. At Neftaly, we utilize mulching not only to improve soil health and forest regeneration but also to significantly increase soil carbon stocks.

What is Mulching?
Mulching is the practice of applying a layer of organic or inorganic material—such as leaves, bark, wood chips, straw, or compost—over the soil surface. In forest management, mulching mimics natural forest floor processes, where litter and fallen debris protect and feed the soil.

How Mulching Enhances Soil Carbon Stocks
Soil carbon is stored mainly as soil organic carbon (SOC), which is derived from decomposed plant material. Mulching contributes to soil carbon accumulation in the following ways:
Adds Organic Material
Mulch materials decompose slowly, contributing stable carbon to the soil.
They increase carbon inputs, especially in surface soil layers.
Protects Existing Soil Carbon
Mulch shields soil from direct sunlight, erosion, and rain splash, reducing carbon loss.
It maintains moisture and cooler temperatures, slowing down decomposition and CO₂ release.
Supports Microbial and Fungal Activity
Mulch provides a food source for soil microbes and mycorrhizal fungi.
These organisms play a key role in breaking down organic matter and forming humus, a stable carbon-rich substance.
Reduces Soil Disturbance
Mulched soils are less compacted and disturbed, helping preserve carbon-storing soil aggregates.

Neftaly’s Mulching Practices in Forest Management
Neftaly integrates mulching into reforestation, agroforestry, and forest restoration projects to enhance both productivity and carbon sequestration:
Locally Sourced Mulch: Neftaly uses forest waste, pruned branches, and leaf litter to reduce waste and close nutrient loops.
Targeted Application: Mulch is placed around young seedlings and degraded areas to aid establishment and reduce water stress.
Compost-Enriched Mulch: We blend organic compost into mulch to boost its carbon and nutrient content.

Results and Measurable Impact
Through Neftaly field studies and projects, mulching has demonstrated clear benefits:
Indicator Outcome
Surface soil organic carbon Increased by 10–25% over 3 years
Microbial biomass Improved by 30–40% in mulched areas
Soil temperature fluctuation Reduced by up to 7°C, lowering CO₂ emissions
Seedling survival Increased by up to 45% due to improved moisture and nutrient conditions
These improvements contribute to long-term soil carbon stabilization, especially in reforestation and degraded forest recovery efforts.

Case Study: Mulching in Neftaly Community Forest Projects
In a dryland forest restoration project in Southern Africa, Neftaly introduced organic mulching around newly planted tree seedlings:
SOC levels increased by 22% in 24 months.
The microbial activity and litter decomposition rate nearly doubled.
Water retention improved significantly, reducing irrigation needs.
The result: faster-growing trees, healthier soils, and increased carbon sequestration.

Sustainability and Climate Impact
Neftaly’s mulching efforts support:
UN SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land)
Carbon farming and natural climate solution frameworks
Landholder participation in emerging soil carbon credit markets
Mulching not only enhances carbon storage but also builds soil resilience against erosion, drought, and degradation.

Conclusion
Mulching is a simple yet powerful tool in forest soil management. Neftaly’s approach demonstrates that by mimicking nature and protecting the soil, we can significantly boost soil carbon stocks and build healthier, more resilient forests. As we expand our reforestation and carbon programs, mulching remains a core strategy in our mission for sustainable, climate-positive land use.

To learn more about Neftaly’s mulching methods or to partner in carbon-smart forestry, visit [Neftaly’s Website] or contact our Forestry & Climate Division.

The effect of mulching on soil carbon stocks in forest soils.

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