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Re: Pine Bark Mulch

Thanks very much!

Linda
USDA Zone 5/NW Missouri

-----Original Message-----
From: for-pac <for-pac@cdr3.com>
To: veggie-list@eskimo.com <veggie-list@eskimo.com>
Date: Tuesday, May 12, 1998 12:29 PM
Subject: Pine Bark Mulch


>-- [ From: for-pac * EMC.Ver #2.5.02 ] --
>
>In regards to using pine bark or other "fresh" woody materials as a mulch,
>it is a good idea to add some nitrogen fertilizer. It is not necessary, but
>would be helpful. The reason is simply that the bacteria that breaks down
>the woody materials in the soil will draw on nitrogen firstly to get the
>process of decomposistion started. The idea of using a mulch is for water
>retention, shade, and weed control, but the soil bacteria just see more
>compost in the making. Soil nitrogen is the key element is starting
>decomposistion, and if there is not enough available, the bacteria will
pull
>it from the soil. If your soils are relatively fertile, then the nitrogen
>loss (for plant availability) will be small. With this in mind, you decide
>whether you need to add any or not.
>
>This is very true to get those compost piles "cooking". Add nitrogen. Lawn
>clippings added to a compost pile is like adding the best of the best. It
>quickly breaks down, and being full of nitrogen, feeds the bacteria, which
>in turn releases more nitrogen and other nutrients, and increases the soil
>bacteria population which increases the decomposition. Of course, with
>composting a little water and turning the pile help a great deal.
>
>So much for theory, try it and watch what happens.
>
>
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