Which plant can function as a living mulch?

• A. Clover
• B. Oak tree
• C. Sunflowers
• D. Water spinach

Answer: (A)

Living mulch means a plant that stays low to the ground and covers soil to protect it and improve conditions for the main crop. Clover fits best because it forms a dense, low-growing mat that shades the soil, reduces erosion and weed pressure, and, as a legume, fixes atmospheric nitrogen into forms the crop can use. Its biomass can be mowed or left to decompose, adding organic matter and improving soil structure over time. The other options don’t work as living mulch: an oak tree is a tall woody plant that would compete with crops rather than protect the soil; sunflowers are tall annuals that don’t provide lasting ground cover; water spinach is a climbing or aquatic plant that doesn’t form a steady ground cover in typical field conditions.