Abstract: Effects of different mulching materials were studied by means of pot culture and open-field experiments on soil evaporation, soil temperature and seedling growth. Main results were described as follows: (1) Compared to CK, soil water content of Prunus salicina and Koelreuteria paniculata under the rice straw were increased 13.86% and 9.82% respectively. (2) Soil water content of Catalpa speciosa cv.was increased 7.79% under the corn straw. (3) The effects of mulching measures were significant on root weight and leaf area, but not obvious to seedling height. Mulching could reduce the damage to seedlings caused by high temperature and seasonal drought and increase their biomass. Therefore, it could be used as one of measurements to promote vegetation restoration at the early establishment of plantation.