MULCHING WITH STRULCH

There are many reasons why mulching is good gardening practice. This year has seen a record low rainfall in some parts of the country. A layer of Strulch will keep moisture in the soil but always saturate the soil before laying any mulch.

Another key benefit of using Strulch is that it reduces weed growth by 95%. It blocks the light that is needed for annual weed seeds to germinate, and it is long lasting – up to two years. Remove visible weeds before laying Strulch.

Eventually, Strulch will be broken down by earthworms and other soil fauna who use it as a food source. In the process, it will add vital nutrients to the soil, while the added organic matter improves soil structure and drainage.

All bulbs and perennial plants will grow through Strulch, and it can be used as part of a no-dig gardening regime. Yet another benefit of the mulch is that it can be used to control slugs and snails organically. Which? named Strulch as its Best Buy Garden Mulch several years ago and has just reported its results for organic control of slugs and snails. Strulch was recommended, scoring highly for durability and the percentage of leaves left undamaged by the end of the trial. Slugs and snails dislike the texture and smell of Strulch but it doesn’t harm them so birds and hedgehogs can still eat them with no ill e ects. or visit strulch.co.uk

As used by the RHS

A family run business established in 2005 after being developed by Dr Geoff Whiteley at Leeds University. He and his wife Jackie then decided to bring it to market.

Strulch is made from wheat straw and the mineralisation process preserves the straw and turns it dark brown. It has a neutral pH so can be used anywhere in the garden and it lasts for up to two years. Over time, the mulch improves soil structure and adds nutrients. The physical properties of the mulch and the added minerals deter slugs and snails!

Professional gardeners see the benefits

“The Alnwick Garden uses Strulch around our delphiniums and hostas to prevent slug damage. Strulch is also used to suppress weeds throughout our borders with great effect”

Trevor Jones, Former Head Gardener

“I have used it on the veg beds as a heavy mulch and experimenting in some areas as a no dig concept; laid it on cardboard on the beds and will sow wildflower seed into it. I have used it on two of the herbaceous borders to keep the weeds down and keep the ground warmer to help protect the crowns.

Head Gardener, Floors Castle Gardens

“I am extremely pleased with the product’s ability to suppress weed growth and have noted an observable improvement in overall plant health and soil structure over a wide range of plants with successive applications” David Redmore, Director, Garden and Landscape Design