[Noonin NorCal]

I was wondering if there is a certain type of straw people use? It will be my first time using outside, we got Wheat Straw, I think I'm going to add some worm castings down first then layer the straw over that. Thanks

[Emperortaima]

Im subbed for this thread as im curious if there's any "brands" that would compliment a organic garden so omri listed or a trusted organic practicing co

[Noonin NorCal]

Sorry i forgot to mention I'm using smart pots. My yard gets pretty windy, i just transplanted yesterday and the day before, so my soil is wet. If i was to put straw down should i give it a little soak even though my soil is moist? I'm worried about it blowing away lol

[Emperortaima]

Have you thought of getting those 420 grow bags (fabric) they close in at the top that may help you with your worry of the straw flying away.

[Noonin NorCal]

To late for that, plants are plugged already. in 45 gallon smart pots

[ronbo51]

I would not be afraid to mulch with straw. It provides a superior matrix for microbial life and improves soil structure. Lay it down and cover with a bit of compost to hold it down and ignite the herd

[Emperortaima]

It also keeps the microbes nice and cool they like it cool and dark

[Hemphrey Bogart]

Straw makes for good mulch...just get the best straw you can find. Last year, I had a cover crop and a straw top layer going...when the cover crop would get too high, I gave it all a haircut and shoved the clippings under the straw. Saw lots of critters on my soil surface when I'd lift up the straw...which meant my soil was alive. The cover crop worked well for pest prevention. They were too busy in the cover crop to ever mess with my plants.

The black Smart pots can get pretty hot on the sides if they're not covered with something. I used old burlap to wrap them to keep them somewhat cooler.

HB.

[troutman]

I've used wheat straw mulch around cucumbers covered it with 2" layer mixture of cow manure
and top soil. The straw stays moist longer this way and starts composting right away.

[Triplemfarms]

If you have any grasshopper issues already, I'd be weary.. I've seen them thrive in straw/hay. Not the biggest issue in the world to have but definitely annoying.