Re: CULT: Mulch on TBs (Pine Needles)

Robert E. Stassen wrote:
> 
> The practice of mulching TBs seems inconsistent (though fine for SI, JA, SP

> That is why use of herbicides in TB beds is a "not infrequently discussed"
> issue or at least "of interest for many growers."  (And yes, I am prepared
> for the many responses to this post which will mention that they have been
> mulching their TBs  for years and have never had any of the problems I
> mention above.)

Those of us in cold climates almost have to mulch,especially on a first 
year planting where the soil has not had enough time to "pack" down. 
Here in zone 5-4 the repeated freeze/thaw cycles in spring will heave 
all but the most heavily rooted first year rhizomes out of the ground. 
We just mulch *after* it is cold for good (usu. e-m December) and remove 
the mulch after the last (we hope) spring freeze. The temprature 
fluctuations have been bad enough here to even lift rhizomes that have a 
brick placed on them. Thus the entire bed needs insulation. We are using 
coarse builders sand, about 3/4", this winter as a mulch...no drainage 
issues and negligible moisture retention. As an added bonus, some local 
growers say it doesnt have to be removed and can be tilled in to our 
high clay content soil when the plants are dug.

John
jbruce@infinet.com
SW Ohio/zone 5b
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