Topic: Asparagus and spent hops as a mulch

[mike.jones]

Anyone tried this?

[valmarg]

I was brought up in Burton upon Trent so spent hops were plentiful for gardeners.  My dad used to get them, pile them in a heap to weather.

Memory's getting a bit vague.  I think he used to dig them in as a 'soil improver', rather than mulch.

He didn't grow asparagus, but I think what you're suggesting would work well.

I don't think there's much nutritional value in the hops, but they are good for soil structure improvement.  I think they would also be good as a mulch.

valmarg

[caroline7758]

I use spent hops a lot, asI can get as many as I want from a local brewery. I find they make a great mulch and keep the weeds down well, although they do sometimes blow away when it's dry. I have used them round asparagus, but it is said that if they are fresh they should not be put near young shoots.
There are a few threads on here if you search. Dear ols Supersprout, a member who is sadly not with us any longer, loved using them.

[valmarg]

There are a few threads on here if you search. Dear ols Supersprout, a member who is sadly not with us any longer, loved using them.

Sorry to go off at a bit of a tangent, but I believe it will be two years tomorrow since SS died.

She is sorely missed.  A lovely lady.

valmarg

[mike.jones]

Thanks for all your help and for the suggestion to use the search facility. Useful info there,