[gavinjconway]

Hi guys.. I have allocated a patch 4mt x 2mt for planting 6 Red, White and Black currants. Before planting I will prepare the ground with a thorough digging, manuring and removal of all visible weed and couch grass roots etc..   

Would it be a good idea to cover the area with tree chippings once planted to suppress weeds?  Obviously the immediate area around the bushes will be left clear so not to suffocate them.

[GrowinGrowinGone]

As long as you don't dig the chippings in, as that will use all the nitrogen, no reason why not. 
This guy covers all his garden in it and grows through it, he made a movie about it.  http://backtoedenfilm.com/

[monkeygee]

ive done the same thing but have put weed suppressing membraine down first with an 8inch square hole in for each plant to go in

[Bing]

So, if one can avoid digging in, the manrue with wood chippings is ok to use after the plants were put in. It will help maintain moisture and got to be a good thing when water pipe ban is on the horizon.

[Thephoenix572]

I got some wood mulch today from freestyle. Never used it before when should I put it down and around what?