What kind of mulch should I use in my raised garden bed?
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3po3 on May 17, 2012I have been growing veggies for a few years, and just lay down high-quality weed barrier (sold on big rolls by the square foot at good garden stores, ie not the garden section attached to the big box stores), and it's pretty effective. You can just cut holes for the plants. In Oregon, you shouldn't have to worry about the soil drying out with the black fabric, which is the only possible drawback here. I think that is easier than mulch, and more effective for blocking weeds. It also keeps the ground warm for your veggies, and is more pest-resistant than mulch. The good weed barrier is more expensive, but should last a few years. The cheap stuff, on the other hand, will last a year at best. If you insist on mulch, I recommend the stuff they call "gorilla hair" around here. It lasts a while and is less likely to get blown around by wind.Helpful Reply
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Douglas Hunt on May 18, 2012If you go with mulch, I always think a good, finely ground, hardwood mulch is best.Helpful Reply
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Erica Glasener on May 18, 2012Anna, if you are using a good quality soil with compost mixed in, I don't think you need mulch but I agree with Doug if you use it, finely ground hardwood is best. Home Depo sells Nature's Helper which is a soil conditioner and I sometimes use it as a mulch.Helpful Reply
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Barb C on May 18, 2012I like a fine bark that has been mixed with manure, I think it's called SteerGro. Very dark and can be mixed in at the end of the season.Helpful Reply
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Annette White on Apr 26, 2013I'm wondering what are anyone's thoughts on using newspapers for keeping weeds out of my raised beds, with mulch on top of them.Helpful Reply
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Mbierystone on May 01, 2015I COVER WITH A MANURE COMPOST AND THEN WITH PEAT MOSS AND DON'T HAVE WEEDS.Helpful Reply
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Katy Fox on Jun 09, 2015Check out rubber mulch from Home Depot - made from recycled tires, comes in a couple of colors and you don't have to replace it every year. AND animals don't like to do their business in it !!Helpful Reply
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