Sawdust question

[Lisasbolt]

As most of you know i really struggle with watering issues, e.g not enough. I have tried mulching and it really has helped.
I cannot seem to find hay/straw without seeds, but i can get very cheap sawdust that is used for animal bedding. Do you think this would be ok?

I was thinking of applying some really good compost then covering a good layer on top of the sawdust.

Thank you in advance

[Jay22]

Seems you can use sawdust as mulch but someone more knowledgeable may be along to say otherwise?

Can You Use Sawdust As Mulch: Information About Mulching With Sawdust

[Guest]

There is an argument that wood shavings would rob nitrogen from the soil. You could mix in chicken poo to counteract as it is nitrogen rich. There is also the school of thought that mulch will only affect the uppermost layer of soil so larger plants will be fine. The choice is yours

[Lisasbolt]

Thanks for the replies, think i will try in a little area. Maybe use the dirty bedding from the ladies.

[Bigmallly]

I think the Nitrogen issue only applies if you dig the shavings in. If you are just laying them on top, they should be fine.

[roitelet]

Be careful with the bedding. Any chicken poo is very strong and could burn plants. I use ordinary straw for mulch and only get the odd wheat seed germinating. Wood chippings should be ok as long as you don't dig them that's when they rob the nitrogen as they rot.

What ever you use apply thickly, several inches thick, and make sure the soil is wet before mulching.

[Kirk]

What do others in the Almeria area/region do regarding mulching or water preservation ?