What’s the best mulch? Compare different types to use when growing tomatoesGardeners often want to know the best mulch to use when growing tomatoes. In a well-known study, North Dakota State University’s Dickinson Research Extension Center evaluated different kinds of mulch to use in the tomato patch.Use this information to help you choose the best mulch for tomatoes in your garden! Grass clippingsAdvantagesEasy to work with Hold moisture well Controls weeds well Visually attractive Inexpensive (free) and easy to come by Top-rated much in this evaluation! Wood chipsAdvantagesHold moisture well Controls weeds well Adds organic matter to soil Disadvantages Limited availability for the individual gardener without access to wood shredder; packaged wood chips are expensive. Rated as second-best much in this evaluation Black plasticAdvantagesMaintains even soil temperature Controls weeds well Disadvantages Makes watering difficult because stream must be directed at plastic opening; water tends to form puddles on plastic Production not as significant as with grass clippings or wood chips Rated third in this evaluation, mainly due to production Buckwheat hullsAdvantagesVisually very attractive Disadvantages Mounded hulls made watering difficult Hulls sprouted buckwheat seedlings all season long Production was low, likely due to the high absorption of water by the hulls Rated fourth in this study No mulchAdvantagesNo work No expense Good production Very few weeds, possibly due to an herbicide application during the previous season A regular watering schedule meant plots did not dry out Have a favorite mulch for growing tomatoes? One that works well for you?Tell us what you use to mulch your tomatoes why you like it. Other gardeners want to know so can grow great tomatoes, too! What Others Readers Have Said About Mulch ...
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