A coating is provided for a landscaping material, comprising a hybrid network of high functionality structured oligomeric siloxane and a polyalkylene glycol coupled with a co-product of monopropylene glycol and propylene oxide. The coating may be coupled with a pigmented colorant and be further mixed with a water-based carrier. The coating is contemplated to increase the efficiency of the mulch as compared to plain mulch material and other coating materials. A testing apparatus, including a retention basin and water measuring basin, are also defined as a means to determine the efficiency of the mulch material and its corresponding coating.