Our friend C showed up (by request) with three bales of straw. Yet another reason why it's good to have a
friend with a truck.
What's it good for and where does it go? Why, thank you for asking.
It keeps weeds down and protects soil moisture around your (wild, unstaked) tomatoes.
As it decomposes over the winter, it will provide nutrients for the soil
where the garlic grew this year. It's currently also surrounding the green bean area (sticks on the ground to discourage Neighbor Kitty's visits).
It's also a great source of "brown" for the compost bin. Boy, if I can get this to heat up I'll really be in business.
The very best reason, though? To provide His Highness, Neighbor Kitty, with a place to recline.
(And receive belly rubs.)
Educational note: hay is harvested on the first pass through the field and is used for feed. Straw is the second pass and is just the hollow stalks--hence, the name. Theoretically, mulching with straw will not cause weeds to sprout. Only time will tell...
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