I have 4 4x8 raised beds. The first year I used mulch on top of the bed. After that I did not because it had settled into the soil so much I did not know if this was a good thing or not. I had also heard that it was not that important. Now I read the (very good tip) about shredded paper as mulch and wonder if that is something I should go to for the raised beds.

Shredded paper and newspaper all work well as a weed barrier. Mulches provide many benefits to plants. Benefits vary with the material used, the type of soil, the kind of plant and the cultural practices used. You should not exceed 2" to 4" per year. 2bg, hope this publication helps http://extension.missouri.edu/...

Also consider the possibility of shredded paper blowing all over your neighborhood . You might need something to hold it in place.

Karen

Autumnal leaves, shredded paper, corn husks, can blow around. My fix was a little brush used as a weight and a liberal watering (or two) and it seems to mat.

Mother nature employes mushroom family plants to wire compostables together.

Thats my story an' I'm sticking to it.