First time gardening

Submitted by mak83s t3_11e98pa in Connecticut

This year I’m going to try growing my own vegetables and was able to build some garden beds. I’ve got my hands on some seeded potatoes and started seedlings this week. I’m in need of straw for mulch and have read that it’s best to get locally grown bc you don’t know of any pesticide or herbicide was used in big store straw. Was hoping someone can give me a lead to where I can get some straw for mulching my garden beds. Preferably in middlesex. Thanks

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gatogrande t1_jacxznn wrote

Straw, now?! Smithfield/land whatever-the-fuck agway changed it's name to on 66, Anderson's in portland, or take a ride to Mackey's in colchester and visit angelo's bakery too

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mynameisnotshamus t1_jadxx5m wrote

I’ve never used straw for anything in a garden. It doesn’t seem to be a necessity.

If it’s a new spot for you, contact your local extension office - google should tell you what that is and send in some soil to be tested. You can the amend the soil as needed to set yourself up well to start.

You can start seeds but I think it’s just easier to wait and buy plants around Mother’s Day.
As someone else said, put a weed barrier down. Slice just enough to plant your plant. Space them properly. Give room to wal between them once they’re fully grown - rows about 4 ft apart should work.

Pay attention to watering needs.

You may need a fence around the garden if you have deer or rabbits or chipmunks or other things…

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gatogrande t1_jae5ccm wrote

Yeah, I dunno why OP is starting now, maybe he has a greenhouse? Maybe he's planting an odd variety not found as plants around here? Gotta ask him. I've always started taters directly in ground. I love straw for moisture retention back off weeds, and fork back in come fall

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mynameisnotshamus t1_jae8xfb wrote

Ahhh. Moisture retention. Got it. I’ve had issues at least early with too much moisture, slugs and some mildew. Every year it’s been a new issue. Last year I didn’t have a garden for first time since having a yard.

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someGuy301 t1_jad5rwm wrote

Tractor Supply carries compressed straw in the feed area. Its kind of chopped already. Straw is preferable for gardens and grass planting cover because it usually does not have weed seeds in it.

If building a new garden bed, I would highly recommend covering it in the weed block material. Water will go right through, moisture will be retained better, and weeds won't get through. Weeding will be your #1 chore without it.

Have a closeby water source. If the weather gets dry in mid-summer, you'll be watering daily.

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timmahfast t1_jadhg11 wrote

Not sure about straw, but you should google growing potatoes in buckets. It's easier and very effective. Good luck with your garden!

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