What is the advantage of using mulch in ornamental gardens?

Using mulch in ornamental gardens primarily offers the benefit of helping to retain soil moisture and suppressing weeds. Mulch acts as a barrier that reduces evaporation from the soil, which keeps the moisture levels more stable and can significantly reduce the need for frequent watering. This is particularly beneficial in Florida's climate, where high temperatures can lead to rapid moisture loss from the soil.

Additionally, a layer of mulch can inhibit the germination of weed seeds by blocking sunlight and creating unfavorable conditions for their growth. This not only minimizes competition for nutrients and water between plants and weeds but also reduces the amount of labor required for weeding.

While the other options mentioned might also provide certain advantages in different contexts, they do not align as directly with the primary, proven benefits of mulch in terms of moisture retention and weed suppression.