[Madame Cholet]

Hi
I've got some rough grass on a friends garden I'd like grow some veg and share it with him. Ive got a roll of membrane in the shed will it kill the grass over the winter. Any other suggestions. going to grow on a bed system with paths.

[peapod]

Hi Rachel

Have a look at this thread, theres some good advice and a usefull linky
As its grass, Id grow first earlies next year (spuds) but not expect too much harvest.  Itll help get rid of any wireworm which is often a pain in previous grassland

http://chat.allotment-garden.org/index.php?topic=45553.msg534453#new

[tode]

Hi R.
If you can, give it amow with the mower set on lowest position ("Scalp Mode"), with the collecting box on.  Will reduce the number of seeds in the ground, and weaken it all a bit.

[Madame Cholet]

Hi its very rough and uneven underneath, hard to mow. I like the idea of working on a small area and covering the rest, will black membrane cut out enough light to kill the weeds/grass? I have a fair bit kicking about. Can I grow main crop potatoes under it, I don't like new pots. What about pumpkins, courgettes, tomatoes and ridge cucumbers in holes and sweet corn? Has anyone tried these?

Rach

[Yorkie]

Yes, black membrane will cut out enough light.

I wouldn't try spuds through it as it's difficult to know where the spuds will sprout through the soil, so they are blocked by the membrane - but others may have other views.

You can grow the other plants through the membrane if you wish, cut a X in it and plant through the hole, folding the cover back afterwards.  Make sure you add sufficient manure or other fertiliser to the hole before planting the plants out, as they are hungry.

[Walewein]

get a spade and take the grass off, dig it in properly and let it rot down over the winter.

[Madame Cholet]

Thanks Yorkie
Like the idea
I'll have a go. I'll try and get it covered in the next couple of weeks.

Rach