Strawbale gardens

[canesisters]

But I'm having a hard time understanding his planting guides.
He says things like '2 tomatoes per bale' - then shows a picture of a bale with a couple of tomatoes plus a dozen other things planted. I've only skimmed - I'm hoping there is more details of what to plant together so not waste any space.

 

[ChickenMomma91]

Smaller plants such as herbs or flowers interplanted amongst the tomatoes is for companion planting and getting the most out of your space. He says only two tomatoes plants so they don't crowd each other or possibly tip the bale with the weight of top heavy tomatoes

 

[Smart Red]

I found that planting my cabbage between the tomatoes made for perfect cabbage heads with nary a cabbage worm to be seen.

 

[canesisters]

Found a local source for rye straw @ $3/bale.
Is rye ok to use????

 

[Smart Red]

Yes, it should be as weed free as wheat or oat straw. Hay is the only baled product that I've heard of as being too weed seedy for use.

 

[canesisters]

Started my 10 bales yesterday. Hoping to be able to try some spinach and such in them in a few weeks. I figure it will take longer to 'condition' them in the colder weather.
... but, we keep having little stretches of days in the high 60's and low 70's

 

[Smart Red]

 

[ChickenMomma91]

I've bought my compost/manure but not my bales lol. Hopefully I'll have them sometime next week, yay for DH bonus check

 

[canesisters]

First 10 down.


I laid a big tarp down, lined up the bales on it, then covered it in some of the sawdust I've got laying around in bags. The outside sawdust is darker because it's wet.
Now just need the t-posts and wire trellis'.

 

[thistlebloom]

Looks great, no weeds to crawl through for you this year!
You have a very nice place there, and I spotted Eva in the pasture.