Grow Your Own Magazine

I understand what mulches do and that there are various different types you can use - bark chippings, grass clippings, sawdust etc. what do the Grapes recommend I use for my little seedlings in the ground? Also, how much would I use? Do the bark chippings break down? How much grass clippings? What size sawdust? Thanks!

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Appreciate the little things in life because one day you will realise they are the big things

Hi Dexter, I wouldn't use sawdust, bark chippings or grass clippings as a mulch on your seedlings. All the above are in close contact with the soil and because they are not rotted, they will pull nutrients, particularily Nitrogen from the soil to assist them to break down!

Well rotted manure of any description ie cow muck, horse muck, or home made compost, spent mushroom compost are all good mulches and will improve soil fertility, instantly!

Peat or coir are inert so also make good mulches. Straw is good because it is a good weed suppressant and although it will slightly deplete the soil nutrients initially (where it touches), it's long term benefits outweigh this small loss!

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My Majesty made for him a garden anew in order
to present to him vegetables and all beautiful flowers.- Offerings of Thutmose III to Amon-Ra (1500 BCE)

Thanks Snadger, I hadnt realised that. Need to get my paws on some well rotted pony poo then! Must have a word with my mate!

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Appreciate the little things in life because one day you will realise they are the big things