Topic: shredded paper as mulch

[daisymay]

Have been having a mad clean out and shredded a load of old bills etc..... Have got 3 bags of shredded paper. Could I use this as a mulch under a bit of carpet on the lottie instead of cardboard, or will I just make a big horrid mess?

I know I can compost it, so will just incorporate it in gardually if not. Unless anyone has any other bright ideas!  :D

[aquilegia]

I put it gradually on my compost heap - it does take a while to rot down, though.

You could line your bean or squash trenches with a layer of it - it holds moisture very well, which they'd both appreciate.

Or put it in the bottom of pots containing things that like a good drink.

[supersprout]

If I had bags of shredded paper I'd be tempted to use it as a surface mulch, weighed down with a few sods (no jokes please ;D).

[reedos]

I just compost mine, but don't see why it shouldn't work as a mulch - give it a try and let us know.

[Mrs Ava]

I put it around my spuds last year to help earth them up!  Also around my strawbs.  Get it wet tho or it will blow far and wide, plus wetting it will help it start to break down.