What is the main purpose of using mulch in gardening?

The main purpose of using mulch in gardening is to suppress weed growth and maintain soil temperature. Mulch creates a barrier that prevents light from reaching weed seeds, which disrupts their germination process and growth. This helps to reduce the competition for water, nutrients, and light that weeds present to desired plants.

Additionally, mulch plays a significant role in temperature regulation. During hot weather, it can keep the soil cooler by providing shade, while in cooler weather, it can help retain warmth. This stability in soil temperature is beneficial for plant health and growth.

The other choices do not align with the primary benefits and purposes of mulch. For instance, attracting pests would be counterproductive to gardening efforts, and reducing soil moisture retention is contrary to one of mulch's key benefits, which is to help retain moisture in the soil. Lastly, while erosion is a concern in gardening, mulch is used specifically to combat it, not increase it.