A Warning Regarding Straw

While inexpensive and versatile, straw has a major downside, and that is the possible presence of herbicides.

Organic straw is difficult to source, so that means that the only option for most people is whatever's available at the feed store, if they are unable to obtain any other kind of mulch in their local area.

For some, it may be good idea to grow their own grain crop specifically to use as mulch.

I still use straw, and here is why:

Most farmers apply 2,4-D and Harmony to their straw crops. Both of these herbicides have a very short half life of about 1-2 weeks. They're usually broken down by the time the straw is harvested, and definitely by the time it's weathered.

It's perfectly safe for use in your organic garden depending on what herbicide has been used and how long it's been.

You should still investigate your source of straw for the herbicides used on the straw you are buying. If pyridine chemicals are used, steer clear - they take a very long time to break down.