Straw is one of the most popular mulch materials, and there are a number of reasons for this.
This material allows you to grow an impressive harvest even on an abandoned plot.
It perfectly retains moisture, protects from scorching sun rays. Under the layer of straw, relative coolness is maintained, which is useful for plants when the air temperature has crossed the mark of +30 °C.
In addition, straw mulch suppresses weeds - rare grass manages to break through the layer.
The ideal moment comes when the plantings have risen sufficiently and the soil has warmed up. The straw is laid out in a layer of 10-15 cm. In 2 months the mulch will settle to 4-6 cm, which is the "golden mean".
The secret of an ideal mulching layer is its density. Of course, straw will not surpass agrotextile in this. However, over time, straw becomes denser. Additionally, summer residents lay boards and walk on them.
Straw is ideal for mulching strawberries. There is never any rot in such beds. Potatoes can be grown under straw even on unsightly soil. Straw perfectly protects perennials from winter cold.