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  • #1

    Paper mulch

    Ive been reading on here in various threads about folks using shredded paper as mulch or to aid water retention in soil.
    I was thinking of doing similar ,but wondered about any toxins in the print ink.
    Are there any chemistry geniuses here who can say yey or ney?
    Save Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock. Coma and Painted Lady butterflies. Dont cut stinging nettles in summer.
    Only cut nettles grown in the shade.
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  • #2
    Not a chemistry genius but I am sure the question has been asked before and the answer is that the inks are vegetable based. Of course I may have dreamt that in which case I shall be shot down in flames!! I've no doubt the answer will be forthcoming shortly.
    I personally do not used glossy newsprint ie colour supplement pages.

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    • #3
      there was an aticle some time again about using paper mache in paths, and lasted around 2 years, but could never find it again

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      • #4
        Originally posted by Sanjo View Post
        I am sure the question has been asked before and the answer is that the inks are vegetable based.
        Yes, and yes Quick link: http://www.animal-bedding.co.uk/animal-bedding.htm
        Last edited by Two_Sheds; 14-05-2010, 07:09 AM.
        All gardeners know better than other gardeners." -- Chinese Proverb.

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        • #5
          I used to make paper pots for my runner beans out of scrap sheets of used A4.
          I never had any problems but then one year all the beans looked weird.
          All I could put it down to was we had changed from a black/white printer to a colour printer.
          I suspected the colour ink had a detrimental effect.
          I had some in normal plastic pots and they looked OK.
          Jimmy
          Last edited by Jimmy; 14-05-2010, 07:00 AM.
          Expect the worst in life and you will probably have under estimated!

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          • #6
            My toodler had a good chew on a colour ink cartridge (yes bad parenting I know....) and after a call to NHS Direct it turned out they are generally non-toxic. So I'm guessing they will be fine for the plants. Of course my son was magenta for a week...!

            Hadn't heard of using a paper mulch, but this is sounding like a good idea, might try myself!
            If it ain't broke...fix it til it is!

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            • #7
              Thanks peeps for replys, and Twosheds great link, Im saving papers from now on.
              Save Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock. Coma and Painted Lady butterflies. Dont cut stinging nettles in summer.
              Only cut nettles grown in the shade.

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              • #8
                Newspapers are great: read them, then shred them for pet bedding & then compost them. Or turn them into paper pots, or use them as a sheet mulch.
                Terrific value for money
                All gardeners know better than other gardeners." -- Chinese Proverb.

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