Paths & plot edges

[artichoke]

SS, this is what I am planning to do on new allotment, currently a grass field. There are unlimited wood shavings from a nearby factory which are going to go on top of the cardboard on top of the newspaper on top of the tussocky grass. I am worried about them blowing around so might nail some netting down over them with U nails.

It sounds quite time-consuming, but almost anything is better than digging into dried out concrete.

[artichoke]

[supersprout]

I am worried about them blowing around so might nail some netting down over them with U nails.

Me too with the straw and newspaper - I kept a watering can handy and watered the bit I'd just done, and they look like staying put. Perhaps your wood chippings will settle down if you can get them wet enough - try this first before netting?

It sounds quite time-consuming, but almost anything is better than digging into dried out concrete

Good luck, remember the before and after photos!

One 4m path, preparation, laying and watering, 1 hour. And no weeding ever again ;D

[jason]

hi just wondering won't your straw paths go all soggie when it rains

[artichoke]

No soggier than mud, surely?

[artichoke]

I soak the newspaper first, then lay cardboard over it and pour water onto that. It is SUCH luxury having water on this site (my active plot has no water, all has to be carried in bottles).

[OliveOil]

Well i've put my carpet tiles down so  i know where i've planted LOL - i'm just waiting to go down tomorrow as it will be wet and you just watch me fall A over T as they are slippery side up! LOL  I know straw can be VERY slippery when wet so take care!

[supersprout]

hi just wondering won't your straw paths go all soggie when it rains

I know straw can be VERY slippery when wet so take care!

A timely reminder, I'll let you know!  :P :-[ ;)