Last years straw mulch - Ask Extension
I used straw for mulch in my vegetable garden last year. Do I need to rake it up before I plant? If so can I put it in yard waste?
Knowledgebase
Last years straw mulch #866283
Asked April 29, 2024, 12:02 PM EDT
I used straw for mulch in my vegetable garden last year. Do I need to rake it up before I plant? If so can I put it in yard waste?
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Straw frequently has seeds imbedded in it. If you get seed free straw it can be an effective mulch. You will need to remove enough of it for the plantings to grow. If it is too thick it may impede plant growth. You can also till it into the soil and add fresh straw on top. So it is a personal choice. Whether you can put it in the yard waste can be a city specific question. Contact your city waste management. Some additional resources for straw mulch are at the following websites:
1. https://extension.sdstate.edu/organic-garden-mulches-conserve-moisture-and-prevent-weeds
2. https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2022-01-20-common-mulches-used-vegetable-garden
1. https://extension.sdstate.edu/organic-garden-mulches-conserve-moisture-and-prevent-weeds
2. https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2022-01-20-common-mulches-used-vegetable-garden
