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Re: [PRIMROSES] Bed Preparation

In a message dated 97-12-27 10:30:16 EST, Butch writes:

<<
 Almost anywhere in MO hardwood mulch will be an economical substitute for
 cypress mulch and will improve the soil at the same time. Buy it bulk and
 put down about 2 inches per year. After about 3 years the 2 inches will be
 carried down to root level, each year, by soil organisms, worms, mushrooms,
 etc. Add moderate amounts of grass fertilizer high in nitrogen like 23-5-4.
 Its not likely that you will overdue P & K so cheap 10-10-10 is just as good
>>


Hardwood mulch is easy to have in huge quantities here also.  There is a
lumber mill nearby that shreds and markets bark and slabwood.  This winter a
tree crew trimming the power lines free of overhanging branches has been
dumping truckloads of chipped wood behind our barn.  It may be a lifetime
supply.  Once in a while a gardener gets lucky.

We have used this wood mulch on paths between raised beds in the veg area for
years.  This past summer putting in new frames we dug up some of the paths and
found soil you cannot believe.  This mulch, even here in the short season
north, breaks down fairly quickly and creates fertile soil of perfect tilth.
Since I have the tree timmer's mountain of mulch, I am going to make better
use of it this coming season.  I would mark Butch's advice on nitrogen, I have
always done this.

Claire Peplowski
East Nassau, NY
zone 4 - Berkshire area
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