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Using fresh garden shredding as mulch

ehouk1ehouk1 Posts: 10
in Problem solving
Hi all,

We have cut back a lot (I mean A LOT) of buddleia and put it through a garden shredder (not the seed heads). Our original plan was to compost it but I wonder if it could be used as mulch on flower beds. It is shredded quite fine. Any advice greatly appreciated. Thanks! 

Posts

  • Cambridgerose12Cambridgerose12 Posts: 1,134
    It's not ideal because in rotting it will use up nutrients from the soil, and also attract pathogens that will also infect your flowering plants. You could however use it as a mulch under trees and shrubs.
  • KT53KT53 Posts: 9,016
    Some years ago I had a similar situation and did put it straight on the borders.  I'm not aware of any problem caused by doing so, but Cambridgerose12 may have a point.
  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,385
    Because it will still be rotting it may not be good for the health of young plants but probably fine to put down on well established beds.
    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • FireFire Posts: 19,096
    Cambridgerose12 said:
    It's not ideal because in rotting it will use up nutrients from the soil, and also attract pathogens that will also infect your flowering plants. You could however use it as a mulch under trees and shrubs.

    I understand that's considered a bit of a myth these days - it doesn't use up much and gives it straight back- like wood chip. I read rave reviews of using fresh grass as mulch.
  • ehouk1ehouk1 Posts: 10
    Thanks all! I will have a think
  • Hostafan1Hostafan1 Posts: 34,889
    Fire said:
    Cambridgerose12 said:
    It's not ideal because in rotting it will use up nutrients from the soil, and also attract pathogens that will also infect your flowering plants. You could however use it as a mulch under trees and shrubs.

    I understand that's considered a bit of a myth these days - it doesn't use up much and gives it straight back- like wood chip. I read rave reviews of using fresh grass as mulch.
    I agree. RHS research showed "minimal nitrogen depletion" and no detriment to plants. 
    Devon.
  • Chris-P-BaconChris-P-Bacon Posts: 943
    I can't see any harm in using it. Personally I wouldn't in my own garden because it habours slugs & earwigs but if you don't have similar pest problems, use it.
  • Hostafan1Hostafan1 Posts: 34,889
    Chris-P-Bacon said:
    I can't see any harm in using it. Personally I wouldn't in my own garden because it habours slugs & earwigs but if you don't have similar pest problems, use it.
    Blakbirds and thrushes love tossing it about as they search for critters.
    Devon.
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