This was our first year using a mulch layer, and let me tell you, it was frustrating! We were excited to try out the biodegradable mulch, but the machine was a nightmare. It took forever to figure out, and we were constantly adjusting it. Driving the tractor straight was a challenge, and keeping the mulch from ripping or jumping off the wheel felt impossible. It required a minimum of three people just to get it somewhat operational!
By the end of the season, we finally managed to run it without too much ripping or tearing, but honestly, the amount of adjustments needed was ridiculous. It felt like we were constantly battling with it just to get the job done. Even with all our efforts, it was clear that this machine needs a lot of help along the way. So much for simplifying our work!
Overall, we were still filled with excitement at the opportunity to farm vegetables and work towards supplying our community and farmers’ markets with fresh, locally grown produce.
The initial excitement of the season faded quickly when we realized that any plants capable of growing and providing shade to the plastic helped to minimize weed growth. However, crops like onions, peppers, and tomatoes—particularly bush varieties that didn’t vine or cover the plastic—were nearly overwhelmed by weeds. The challenges were compounded by an extreme amount of rain that lasted for 21 straight days, which left us unable to weed our beds as we had hoped. This is why we had opted to use mulch in the first place. Overall, I found myself feeling disappointed with the biodegradable mulch, as it didn’t meet our expectations. It’s disheartening when things don’t go as planned, especially after putting in so much effort.
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