[gardgydja]

I have been having nightmares about what on earth I can use to muck my plot- it´s so sandy and drains like a sieve. I can´t get any well-rotted manure unless I buy it in bags at the garden centre, and that needs a car. I don´t have a car so I can´t get out to the recycling centre and buy cheap compost either. My own compost will be ready in two years, probably, it´s going so slowly.

But! I live near the sea and there are thick banks of stinking seaweed all over the place round here. I can put a black bin bag of the stuff under the pram every day if I wish. I thought I would start with this until I get get my hands on manure and compost (and a car).

My question is, can it be put straight onto the beds as a mulch or should I mash it up in water? I´m worried if I use masses of it the salt might burn the plants.

[noshed]

I don't think the salt will do any harm - give it a go!

[WhippetMaster]

Put the seaweed on a lawned area and wash it down with water. Leave for a couple of days to dry out then run your mower over it. Spread it over your beds and use it as a mulch to top your pots. Works well as a brassica feed on your beds and as a mulch in tomato pots.

I have picked up a trailer load this year and my brocolli, runner beans, tomato, broad beans and peas are all fed on it!!!!

My dad has used it for over 30 years and uses no other fertiliser. Just two pllications per year on all beds.

Too much salt can cause problems with growing vegetables!!!

Fill yer boots.

[gardgydja]

Thanks! We have had a rainstorm today so I´ll head out collecting tomorrow.

The dad who uses it twice a year- does he dig it in in the autumn and spread it on top in the spring? I have already planted all my stuff out so I thought I´d do it that way. Let me know if it´s wrong!

[Bigbadfrankie]

Some of the best local land has been feed with seaweed. Its great stuff. The salt will deter the slugs as well.

[DD.]

Posted this link before, but worth another airing..

http://www.thisisjersey.com/community/history-heritage/vraic/

[Trillium]

Very interesting article, DD. Sure wish I lived near some water  :cry:

[WhippetMaster]

My dad mows over it and spreads it over his beds in early winter then again in early spring when it is then dug in. Helps retain moisture and nutrients!!!