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Re: mulching suggestions?

Hi Pat:

I use shredded bark mulch on all my plantings and have had very good
luck doing so. The important thing is timing -- don't put a thick
layer of mulch on before the soil is warm or the warming process will
be slowed. I know some people have concerns about shredded bark
harboring fungi (the sulfur-yellow, pretty scary-looking 'dog vomit'
fungus that frequently develops around here is harmless) and insects
(earwigs -- eeuch) and slugs/snails (not a problem where I live). I
don't like earwigs, but haven't found that they were a big problem in
my mulched beds (they give me the creeps, but don't seem to eat
much). I think that the benefits of a mulch that stays put (it's
WINDY where I am!) and breaks down and contributes to the fertility
of the soil far outweigh its potential drawbacks. Of course, your
mileage may vary -- but I'd think that bark would work pretty well in
your climate, too.

Aesthetics are a whole 'nother (and exceedingly personal) issue --
I'm a real fan of Mel's, but the mere thought of putting carpeting
down as mulch makes the little hairs on the back of my neck stand up!
OTOH, I can see its utility in pathways and around the edges of the
beds to keep weeds/dust/mud from being a problem. So whatever floats
your boat is probably your best bet! Hope this helped.

Sue Drake
Southeastern WI -- USDA zone 4b/5a
----------
> From: Patricia Hayward
> Subject: mulching suggestions?
> Date: Friday, February 28, 1997 2:57 PM
>
> Does anyone have any good mulching suggestions?  I know in Mel's
book he
> recommends old carpet (says it works the best) but does anyone have
any
> experience with plain old regular bark/shredded mulch?
>
> Thanks,
> Patricia
> Austin, TX
> pah9r@juno.com
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