What Can Be Grown on Straw Bales?
You can grow a wide variety of annuals in a straw bale, according to Mississippi State University Extension. Just stay away from plants that would get too top heavy, such as corn and sunflowers. Does this Spark an idea?
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Benefits
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A composting bale of straw serves as an ideal growing environment. Gardeners who have poor soil or limited growing space, who want to minimize weed problems or who need to reduce their kneeling or bending may choose straw bale gardening.
Considerations
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Process straw bales with water and fertilizer prior to planting to encourage the composting process to begin. Keep bales soaked so plants have adequate water. Wheat straw bales hold water well. A sheet of plastic under the straw bales will help prevent water from seeping into the ground.
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Planting Rate
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A single bale of straw will hold two tomato or squash plants or four cucumber, lettuce or pepper plants.
History
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Growing cucumbers in straw bales was introduced in the United States more than 50 years ago.
Fun Fact
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Continual watering may encourage your bales to start sprouting. If you get an unexpected grass crop growing, just use scissors to give your bales a hair cut.
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