ground covering problems

[pumpkin cuddler]

hello there,

Looking for some help.

We have an allotment using raised beds with wooden shuttering to keep the soil in.

So as to keep the work down we used carpet to cover the paths/walkways. This was not a problem with our allotment association, up until now.

At present the carpet issue is under debate with the association. If they do decide that carpets are not allowed on the allotments any more, has anyone got any ideas as to what we can cover our allotment paths with??

Like lots of people out there we do not have loads of time for our allotment, (though we would like to). We would like to spend our time sorting out the fruit and veg areas rather than weeding paths.

Also we do not have loads of spare cash so would like something that would not cost too much either.

[JennieAtkinson]

I got a 50 metre roll of pathway membrane from NR Kays. Can't remember how much it was now, but it seemed pretty reasonable. I then managed to get some cheap chips from the local quarry (two trips with a small trailer) and that has worked well for my paths in the veg plot in the garden.
I also got some cheap bark chips from Somerfield, which also worked, but I don't think they are going to last very long.
My paths have been down for two years now and I haven't had to do anything but pull out the odd weed. As it is growing in the top of the gravel they are easy to pull.
Hope this helps and good luck!

[Earthbabe]

How about asking the council or association if they can supply some wood chips to cover the membrane with. We have membrane down on one of our plots and will be covering it when we get a new delivery. Might be worth a try if it is the association which is forcing you down this path. Also keep an eye open in your local Lidl or similar in the spring when they will have another load of woodchip in.

[nick the grief]

Have a word with a local tree surgeon as they have to pay to get rid of their waste ! A site near to ours takes all the shreddings from one firm & they dissappear in minutes!!

If you speak to the Lottie committee, they may allow them to tip them for everyone so you may need to speak to more tha one!

[Angie]

hello there,

Looking for some help.

We have an allotment using raised beds with wooden shuttering to keep the soil in.

So as to keep the work down we used carpet to cover the paths/walkways. This was not a problem with our allotment association, up until now.

At present the carpet issue is under debate with the association. If they do decide that carpets are not allowed on the allotments any more, has anyone got any ideas as to what we can cover our allotment paths with??

Like lots of people out there we do not have loads of time for our allotment, (though we would like to). We would like to spend our time sorting out the fruit and veg areas rather than weeding paths.

Also we do not have loads of spare cash so would like something that would not cost too much either.

Hiya

I use black membrane from the garden centre (usually £1'ish a metrre) keep it own with bricks until you can place barks bits/stones on top. Once the membrane is on top weeds will not grow and you can take your time in putting the bark on top. I am also using raised beds and that what I am doing in my walkways. My other allotmentees are raising their eyebrows at me at the moment but I shall have the last laugh when I dont have to dig anymore ha ha ha

[Earthbabe]

Or break your back weeding in the summer. Tee Hee!!

[NOG]

I would leave the carpet down and cover it with Leaves, bark chips, grass cutting or anything I can get hold of free then deny that the carpet is there.