Food Forests use woodchip as a mulch.

We use layers of unpainted cardboard and woodchip, which break down slowly to provide nutrients for the soil.

As well as getting providing nutrition the woodchip retain water which reduces the need for irrigation.

The most important feature of the woodchip however is to kill off the grass and weeds that would otherwise compete with our plants.

Reducing the amount of grass not only benefits the plants, but it also reduces the amount of time required maintaining the food forest. You can't eat grass and it requires regular effort. A food forest allows you to focus on what you can grow to eat, whilst still creating a space that is natural and family friendly.

This was our first woodchip delivery and I am currently trying to source more. I estimate it will take another 6-10 truck loads to fully cover our forest. Thankfully woodchip is a by product for tree surgeons that they are typically happy to be rid of for only a small fee. Similarly cardboard can be sourced from local businesses for free.

Once complete we will need to add some fresh woodchip each year to replenish what has broken down but not in the same huge quantities. For the next while though, this will make for a highly effective gym for me!