Just Buy More Straw

[big rockpile]

I started out using Ruth Stout method on my garden until my wife said it was too dangerous. I’m using straw.

I planted Potatoes and figured I would use Straw from another area to cover them again.

Problem is my Potatoes are coming up but I have volunteers coming up where I was going to get Straw.

My wife says just buy some more.

big rockpile

 

[big rockpile]

Figured out what I can do. Man this involved thinking and all.

big rockpile

 

[Sluggy]

Read in my gardening magazine you can use grass cuttings instead of earth or straw. Confirmed by a neighbour who owns an allotment. Never tried it personally.

 

[big rockpile]

Thanks going to Raised Beds. Pretty tall ones so I’m not bending over.

big rockpile

 

[oldigrow]

Figured out what I can do. Man this involved thinking and all.

big rockpile

be careful where you get your straw. Here in KS. lots of hay fields and wheat are sprayed with weed killer. found out the hard way.
old Missouri boy from willow springs.

 

[big rockpile]

Read in my gardening magazine you can use grass cuttings instead of earth or straw. Confirmed by a neighbour who owns an allotment. Never tried it personally.

Seems to be working well with Straw but I’m going with Raised Beds and using Nasturtiums to cover the soil.

big rockpile

 

[Sluggy]

Keep an eye on them as they self seed. As well as spread.

 

[roadrunner]

You don't have to copy Ruth Stout's method to an exact degree. The reason it works is because mulching with organic matter feeds the soil organisms as well as providing habitat and trapping water. Over time their population grows and they are what develops a symbiotic relationship with plants.

Personally, I think it's best to have a mix of ingredients as mulch, that way you attract more organisms, increasing biodiversity, which maintains a balance, i.e. reduces amount of "pests".

Imagine going to an all-you-can eat buffet with only one ingredient.

 

[big rockpile]

My wife felt Ruth Stout method was too much for me with heavy Mulch and binding over.

Know about seeds with Nastrums plus trying Borage. Yes I am a glutton for punishment.

big rockpile