A mulch composition 10 and a method of manufacturing thereof are provided. The mulch composition 10 is preferably composed of a fibrous peat material 11, biomass-derived unfractionated pyrolysis oil 12 and water, and may further include an additive 3, such as biochar, bio-ash or potato flour. A ground cover for a soil substrate 20 is formed by distributing the mulch composition 10 over the soil substrate. Uses of said mulch composition 10 in combatting pests and in soil reclamation and improvement are further provided.
