Normally I plant my tomato plants in pots but this summer I tried something new. I'd read a newspaper article about using bales of straw as raised planting beds.
Over last winter, I took a straw bale, laid it on it's side, and cut holes into it where I wanted my tomato plants to be planted. I fill the holes with potting soil and let it sit out during the winter rains (which we got a lot this year), The soil and rain create a condition where the straw starts to break inside. When weather allowed for proper planting conditions, I put 2 tomato plants in the soil, topped off my potting soil, and let it grow.
So far the plants have grown exceptionally well. I water them a bit more often than I did when they were in pots because I feel the straw drains too easily. My Cherry tomatoes are delicious right off the vine, and rarely have time sit around long enough to be turned into a salad. Something about warm tomatoes right off the vine that can't be beat.
I've had no problems with pests however my straw bale is starting to show signs of falling apart. I"m thinking that when the plants have stopped providing fruit, I'll break the bales apart and use them as winter ground cover.
I love living in Rincon Valley! I've lived here since 1995 and can't imagine living in a better north bay community. Call me today if you're interested in buying a home in Rincon Valley, or if you'd like to list your Rincon Valley home for sale.
- Jim Cheney, Broker
- Saint Francis Property
- Jim@StFrancisProperty.com
- (707) 494-1055
- Rincon Valley - Santa Rosa
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