Strawbale gardens

[ChickenMomma91]

I did a quick search and didn'tsee anything dedicated strictly to strawbales. I'm planning a strawbale garden this year with lots of herbs interplanted amongst the veggies as companion plants. Has anyone had experience with this type of format for gardening? I'm setting mine side-by-side instead of end-to-end.

 

[canesisters]

I've seen some really good things about it, but haven't tried it. I'm actually considering it myself this year since I'm having some soil issues.
I've read that there is a bit of prep for the bales before you can start planting.

 

[Smart Red]

Some of that prep involves wetting the bale thoroughly and giving it time to heat up (and cool down again) before planting. I've thought of that heating process as a way to add a bit of heat to my garden shed this spring before starting any veggies in the bales.

 

[ChickenMomma91]

I'm going off the book 'Straw Bale Gardens' by Joel Karsten. He gives a very exact formula for conditioning the bales

 

[thistlebloom]

I'm really looking forward to watching your garden grow and hearing progress reports ChickenMomma!

I'm very intrigued by this concept. I planned on being potato-less this season, because of some soil issues, but after reading about the success of potatoes in straw bales I'm excited about getting a crop.

 

[Smart Red]

Checking the web for sites about Joel and his technique. Thanks.

 

[ChickenMomma91]

I'm thinking of a different set up than what I drew out to try and save space. DH is wanting to try and put a fence up this year so I'm trying to make sure my garden doesn't get smashed (I'd have to kill him since it'll cost about $150 not including seed starter)

 

[canesisters]

Question - can you start your bales too early??
If I start them in Feb... will they be 'spent' before I can plant in June? Or are they good as long as the strings hold up and they don't fall apart?

 

[thistlebloom]

I'm seriously considering this for the kids garden class this year. Each kid could have their own bale. I can think of so many great lessons around this approach.

 

[ChickenMomma91]

Question - can you start your bales too early??
If I start them in Feb... will they be 'spent' before I can plant in June? Or are they good as long as the strings hold up and they don't fall apart?

I honestly have no idea. You could get on Joels site and ask him though