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Allotment Stuff => The Basics => Topic started by: CornishLass on April 13, 2011, 14:41:07

Title: waterproof membrane
Post by: CornishLass on April 13, 2011, 14:41:07
Hello,

I am intending to cover a couple of my beds this year due to time constraints and am planning on planting through holes (squash etc).  Initially I was going to use cardboard but have found a huge roll of damp proof membrane and was wondering whether I could use this?  My only thought is that water wouldn't be able to penetrate.

Your advice would be great  :)

CL
Title: Re: waterproof membrane
Post by: tonybloke on April 13, 2011, 20:49:37
if you create 'dips' for planting in, with 'humps' between these, then any rain that falls will be directed to the plants. also, any evaporation that takes place under the cover will also return to the plants, win win situation.
Title: Re: waterproof membrane
Post by: Vinlander on April 14, 2011, 00:57:45
Just make sure you lift the whole lot every year - or if you don't then lift it all and dump it as soon as you see any cracking anywhere - sunlight makes it brittle and then it becomes a pain to get up.

Of course you can put carpet on top and get the best of both worlds - as long as you religiously remove any weeds that get a foothold in the carpet, and pierce any dips to drain them lest they remain damp and encourage weeds.

Cheers.