Grow Your Own Mulch

Grow Your Own Mulch

Looking for a interesting container growing experiment? Ever thought your kitchen scraps could be the key to a lush, productive garden? Homegrown mulch could be just what you are looking for. Some leafy greens grow quickly, don't mind containers or crowding with other plants, and requires regular pruning. 

 

  • Kale: A hardy and prolific grower, kale can be directly sown into the ground and thrives in close quarters.
  • Mustard Greens: These fast-growing greens tolerate dense planting and can be sown directly in the ground.
  • Swiss Chard: Swiss chard is another excellent option for in-ground planting, as it can handle some crowding and still produce a bountiful harvest of leaves.
  • Collard Greens: Similar to kale, collard greens are robust and can be grown in close proximity without sacrificing yield.
  • Spinach: While spinach prefers slightly more space, it can still tolerate some crowding, especially if you harvest the outer leaves regularly.
  • Arugula: Arugula is a quick-growing green that can be sown thickly and still produce a good harvest.
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    Why Leafy Greens are Mulch?

    • Leafy greens are the garden sprinters, producing abundant foliage in a flash. This translates to a constant supply of mulch material throughout the season.
    • As leafy green matter decomposes, it releases a treasure trove of nutrients, particularly nitrogen, back into the soil, feeding your plants naturally.
    • A thick blanket of leafy green mulch creates a barrier that weeds struggle to penetrate, minimizing competition for water and nutrients.
    • Mulch acts like a sponge, helping the soil retain moisture, especially during hot spells, and reducing your watering needs.

    Grow, Harvest, Mulch

    1. Plant Densely: Sow seeds close together or broadcast them for rapid ground coverage.
    2. Cut and Come Again Method: Harvest outer leaves regularly, encouraging the plant to produce more.
    3. Chop and Drop Method: Once you have a good amount, roughly chop the greens to accelerate decomposition.
    4. Apply Generously: Spread a layered mix of fresh and dried chopped greens around your plants, replenishing as needed.

    Air Dry Method:

    1. Spread and Turn: Lay greens in a thin layer on a clean, dry surface. This maximizes airflow and prevents clumping, which can slow drying and encourage mold. Turn them frequently to ensure all sides dry evenly.

    2. Utilize Airflow and Sunlight: Place in a sunny, breezy spot or use a drying rack. Sunlight provides heat for evaporation, and wind carries away moisture, speeding up the drying process.

    3. Protect from Moisture: Cover greens during rain or heavy dew to prevent them from reabsorbing moisture. Uncover them during the day to allow sunlight and airflow to continue drying.

    4. Check for Dryness: Greens are ready when they crumble easily and feel brittle, indicating all moisture has been removed. Store in an airtight container to keep them dry and prevent mold.

    Benefits of Mulch:

    • Mulch creates a protective layer that moderates soil temperature and creates a favorable microclimate for your plants.
    • Some leafy greens, like mustard, can release compounds that deter certain pests.
    • Repurpose blemished or overripe greens from your kitchen into valuable mulch.

    Transform Your Garden Today

    Homegrown mulch can unlock a more sustainable, productive, and vibrant garden. With a little planning and the right leafy greens, you can create a self-sufficient ecosystem that benefits both your plants and the planet.

    Remember:

    Mulch offers some benefits like moisture retention and weed suppression. However, they decompose slower and might attract pests or develop mold. It's best to use dry leaves for mulch, but if you use green leaves, use them sparingly and monitor closely for any issues.

    • Experiment with different leafy greens to find what works best for your climate and garden.
    • Don't forget to include other fast-growing plants like herbs and even grasses like wheatgrass in your mulch mix.
    • Enjoy the satisfaction of turning potential waste into a valuable resource for your garden.

     

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