Mulch & Hull

Crushed Corncobs
Crushed corncobs are an inexpensive type of mulch that has an
excellent cushioning effect. In fact, they are often used on
playgrounds as well. You can usually purchase crushed corncobs in
their natural state or dyed.
n Hay
Hay is often used in farm and rural gardens because it is generally
readily available and inexpensive. Using aged bales of hay can further
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improve its ability to reduce weed growth. Fresh hay, on the other
hand, can actually encourage weed growth because it usually contains
weed seeds. Hay should not be applied to the garden until after the
ground has become warmed. Otherwise, voles and mice may tunnel
under it to keep warm.
n Spent Hops
Spent hops are often readily available from breweries. They can be
somewhat smelly after they are first applied to the garden, but the
scent will go away in a few weeks.
n Buckwheat Hulls
Buckwheat hulls are a fluffy type of mulch. They are excellent for use
around annual and perennial flowers.
n Cocoa-bean Hulls
Cocoa-bean hulls provide a rich, brown color to your garden and
smell like tasty chocolate. If you choose to use cocoa-bean hulls as a
mulch, you should only apply a thin layer. Otherwise, they may
become moldy and slimy. If you do apply a layer that is more than
three inches thick, you should rake the mulch on occasion in order
to stir the hulls. This will help reduce the amount of dampness they
retain and make it less likely for mold to grow.
n Peanut Hulls
Peanut hulls can often be purchased at garden centers or directly
from peanut growers and peanut processors. Peanut hulls are
excellent for the garden because they provide nitrogen to the soil asthey break down.