A Gardeners Forum Forums Members History Forum Life 2006 straw bales

I was wondering if i could use the straw bales as a boarder around my garden like for a raised bed garden????? The wood is too much $$ and just thought of this. Any one have any Ideas about that thought??? I know it wont look too nice but maybe someone has some ideas with that too. Can't wait to start gardening.I'm Thinking of some way to help with the watering Like rain barlles but $$$ thier too.lol Any ideas???

Yes you can, and I know at least one gardener' that does do this, Longy, he lives in Austrailia..
*I'll see if he's on shore and be able to give you some helpful pointers..

I have seen this method done, in several books and shows I've watched...

You will have to replace the straw from season to season, as it breaks down, but it's wonderful and you can then add it to the commost bins, till it in in the fall time, or even, drum rolllllllllll,
plant tomotoes in it the next year... yes, you read right, I've read where they take a "seasoned" straw bale and slice out two holes, *I think if I did it, I'd do one, but they did two, your choice* and they kinda thru in a mixed medium of compost, potting soil, peat, etc. and kinda rubbed in in the hole, shook it so it went into the cracks a wee~bit and then planted a tomato plant..
*oh, and put a piece of rebar I believe into the bale down into the ground to hold it steady and give support to the tomato plant...

But yes, it's a great way to do a garden...

*and if you do it, would you please keep us informed ..

I understand that plastic garbage cans with fine wire mesh over the top work well. Then all you need is a spigot near the bottom and a hose and your ready to go.