[Baz]

I have got access to literally tons of 1 ton baled straw, been left outside for 3 or 4 years, and hasn't broken down hardly at all

I took some up my plot in the winter, spread it about, then went over it with my grass cutter, this does a fine job of cutting it into 2 to 4 inch lengths (good as a chaff cutter!)....I then rotovated it in

But i'm not sure if it has any value as a fertiliser :? ........mebbe its use, is just organic matter?

Anyone know if it has any fertiliser propertys?

[WG.]

Not as a fertiliser, no.  If anything it will rob nitrogen as it finishes rotting down in the soil.  It will do wonders for the humus content though.

Perhaps you'd consider adding nitrogen in some other form, e.g. dried blood, or by growing peas, beans or tares.  Doubtless there are non-organic ways too.

[richyrich7]

Just soak the straw with loads of water it will start to heat up and rot down ready for next year, WG's spot on a usual it will rob your soil if used uncomposted.

[WG.]

You can make a quick and easy compost heap with nowt but wet straw and pigeon / chicken manure.  I did this once & it hit 80 degs Celsius.

Search the other threads for no-dig potatoes.  Wet straw + grass cuttings on top.