Which of the following is NOT a benefit of mulch in flower beds?

Mulch offers several benefits that contribute to the overall health and aesthetics of flower beds, making the identification of non-beneficial aspects essential. One of the key advantages of mulch is its ability to reduce the number of weeds. By creating a barrier, mulch can suppress weed growth and limit competition for nutrients and water, which promotes a healthier environment for the flowers.

Additionally, mulch helps regulate soil moisture by reducing evaporation, which in turn keeps the soil consistently moist for longer periods. This is particularly important in climates with varying weather conditions, as it aids in maintaining optimal growing conditions for the plants.

Another significant benefit of mulch is its role in preventing soil erosion. By covering the soil, mulch protects it from wind and water runoff, which can wash away valuable topsoil and nutrients, thereby supporting the stability and health of your flower bed.

In contrast, attracting pests is not a benefit of mulch. While certain types of mulch may inadvertently invite some pests, the primary purpose of using mulch is to enhance plant health rather than promote pest activity. Thus, recognizing that attracting pests does not align with the beneficial traits associated with mulch clarifies why this choice is the correct answer to the question.