One of the best things about gardening is being able to experiment with new products, plants and methods. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just getting started, growing your plants using straw bales may be just what you’ve been looking for! Straw bale gardening is simple to start, a breeze to maintain and the results are magnificent.
There are many resources available to research straw bale gardening but here are a few guidelines to get you headed in the right direction. Just like with any other gardening adventure, you can cater your garden to your needs and what you have readily available. There is always room for customizing your garden, so be creative and have fun!
Straw bale gardening can be done just about anywhere. First, determine where your bales will be placed and what plants will grow best in that location. You can place your straw bales on pavement or in the yard; it is all up to you and what you have available. Before planting, your straw bales will have to be conditioned with water and some kind of fertilizer, depending on your preference. Water your bales and be amazed as they begin to break down and form the future home of all of your hand selected plants. Allow a few weeks to fully condition your straw bales before throwing your plants into the mix. You can add sterile potting mix and manure to the decomposed bales before planting as well. Once you have planted your bales, water and watch ’em grow!
There are many advantages to gardening with straw bales. First of all, you have the freedom to grow wherever and whatever you want! This method of gardening allows you to use organic techniques that will ease your mind; knowing where your herbs and edibles came from.
Another added benefit is that these gardens are low maintenance.
There will be minimal weeding with your straw bales. Just be sure that when you purchase your straw bales that you are really getting straw and not hay. Hay will have a multitude of seeds that no one wants or needs in their garden. The height of the bales also provides accessibility for gardeners that can’t or shouldn’t do a lot of bending over and/or lifting.
Gardening with straw bales offers you a new way to grow without limitations. Whether you use this method for easy accessibility or just for a fun new project, chances are you’ll be thrilled with the results.
