Viewing post #1098767 by RoseBlush1

gemini_sage said:The mulch I've been using for years was from roadside tree trimmers. Much of it decomposed before I could use it as mulch, but those piles became my veggie garden. It was really nice having all that mulch! I just can't justify the expense of the bagged stuff or getting truckloads of good stuff delivered.

I've gotten really into bearded irises the last couple of years, and most folks around here recommend against using mulch with bearded irises. With the tough varieties I've had for years I mulched up to the outside of the clump and left the rhizomes exposed in the middle. In getting new varieties started I've had to be careful about keeping the mulch off of them. Now that most of my mulch has decomposed, I haven't been in too much of a hurry to replace it. I've added so many irises the last couple of years it now is tough to mulch around them. I'm considering just mulching in spots, various plants that would benefit- particularly roses, clematis, lilies, and peonies. That might break my brain though- a possible OCD fit could occur if it isn't all consistent

The wood chips from the utility company's chipping pile is pretty much the same thing. They have to clear the easements under the utility lines so that wild fires are not started by a downed line. They chip the branches and trees that have been removed and dump the chips in their yard in a mountain of wood chips at the end of town. Anyone can take as much as they want free. Most people take from the top of the pile. I get the stuff from the bottom of the pile ...

I haven't gotten to Mrs. J's irises yet. I haven't a clue as to how I am going to keep grass from growing in them once I get them cleaned up.