Yes mulch is excellent. If you have access to wood chips you can also use that to create a layer above the soil protects soil and locks in moisture stops soil getting too dry too fast. Pretty much emulating a forrest.

Sounds great what you doing and you have land too. Brilliant. If you can get livestock cows or sheep, then pretty much create a cycle between. Can use manure for compost . soil and, milk etc. Mini farm. Good plan you've got become self sufficient.