I’m on the lookout for mulching materials
It is truly amazing the difference mulch can make in a garden. The weather has been dry but my plants all look great and have only needed minimal watering. The bare soil in my garden paths are hard and dry. This is where the mulched areas show their value. Peeling back the mulch from the rows of plants finds moist, loose soil.
There is one problem with this wonderful system. My main mulch source is grass and leaves. The leaves are more abundant in the fall than summer for obvious reasons. The drier weather has slowed the growth of my lawn and therefore reduces the amount of mulch I have available this time of the year. This is a great time to add more mulch to the garden. The materials that were applied earlier in the season are already beginning decomposition. This builds the soil, but reduces the amount left on the plants. An additional layer now helps to keep moisture in place as well as acting as a barrier against weeds.
This means the search is on for any and all sources of mulching materials. I have been able to obtain a decent quantity of wet straw. This has been wonderful for the potatoes, onions and vining plants. With any luck, I will be able to obtain more straw as well as grass clippings and other material. Anyone growing a garden should keep an eye open for extra mulching materials this time of the year. The difference is unbelievable.
I’ll see you in the backyard!