I am mulching mostly with grass clippings. They look like straw once they dry off. Very good at suppressing weeds and conserving moisture.

For weeding, I love my L-shaped patio weeder: http://outdoorlearning.bevandesign.c.../weeder_sm.jpg

It was from the Poundstretcher, but I've just upgraded to a Spear & Jackson (it was in the sale)

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~ What do I think of Western civilisation? I think it would be a very good idea ~ Gandhi