Digging Up The Backyard: Found More Than Just Dirt
I tried the straw trick last fall after reading about it somewhere, and honestly, it made a difference. The grass clippings didn’t get that gross, matted layer, and the soil underneath seemed looser. Didn’t really notice a huge worm party, though—maybe I didn’t use enough leaves? Still figuring this stuff out...
The grass clippings didn’t get that gross, matted layer, and the soil underneath seemed looser.
That’s been my experience too—straw really helps with airflow. If you want more worms, you might try mixing in partially decomposed leaves rather than fresh ones. Worms seem to go for that “just right” stage, not too dry or fresh. Also, if your soil’s heavy clay, it can take a couple seasons before you see a real uptick in worm activity. It’s a slow process but worth it over time.
Honestly, I’ve had mixed results with straw. Sometimes it seems to attract more slugs than worms, especially in the wetter spots. I’ve actually had better luck just letting the grass clippings break down on their own, but maybe that’s just my soil type. Every yard’s a little different, I guess...
Honestly, I’ve had mixed results with straw. Sometimes it seems to attract more slugs than worms, especially in the wetter spots.
That’s funny, because I’ve had almost the opposite experience—straw’s been a game changer for me, but only after I started mixing it with shredded leaves. On its own, yeah, it did seem to invite every slug in the neighborhood. But once I layered in some dry leaves and even a bit of sawdust from my workshop, things balanced out. The worms went wild for it and the slugs backed off (mostly).
I get what you mean about grass clippings though. If you’ve got the patience to let them break down naturally, they’re gold. My only gripe is when they mat up and get slimy... then it’s just a mess to dig through later. Every yard really does have its own personality—what works in one spot can totally flop in another. Makes experimenting half the fun, honestly.
Every yard really does have its own personality—what works in one spot can totally flop in another. Makes experimenting half the fun, honestly.
That’s been my experience too, especially after moving to a property with heavier clay soil. I tried the straw + leaves combo last fall, but I think I overdid the sawdust—ended up with a layer that just sat there, barely breaking down. Maybe it was too much carbon and not enough nitrogen? I’m starting to think the key is getting the ratios right, almost like composting.
With grass clippings, I’ve had better luck spreading them super thin, almost like dusting the surface, rather than piling them up. Otherwise, yeah, they turn into that slimy mat you mentioned. Not exactly luxury landscaping material...
Curious if anyone’s tried wood chips as a mulch layer? I’ve read mixed things about them tying up nitrogen, but I’m tempted to give it a shot in a test patch. Wondering if layering them over a thin green mulch would help balance things out.
