Re: CULT: gravel mulch

I am always interested in hearing new ways of doing things, and the irises that survived the freeze and drought look better this year than most. I don't understand how they manage to keep looking so good with so little water. Some have foliage that is bleached, but most look ok. 

The companions (weeds) are another story!  They look terrible.
How thick do you spread it? "Gravel" here mostly ranges from an inch or so up to 3 or 4 inches, & in parts of the 'gravel rows' can make up a third or more of the soil. I've mostly carted off the bigger rocks, at least in the top foot of soil.
Gravel here is mostly angular, so doesn't roll around, but isn't very attractive (chert). 

<I am
always reluctant to give advice on culture I believe
everyone has to learn their own microclimates and
conditions.>
--
Linda Mann east Tennessee USA zone 7/8
East Tennessee Iris Society <http://www.DiscoverET.org/etis>
American Iris Society web site <http://www.irises.org>
talk archives: <http://www.hort.net/lists/iris-talk/>
photos archives: <http://www.hort.net/lists/iris-photos/>
online R&I <http://www.irisregister.com>

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