Haskap Mulching, Weed suppression

Unwanted plants, have been the #1 time suck on the farm. Taking resources to pull the weed, and most regrettable competing against the haskaps.

We have used plastic much, or as we call it endless garbage bag. Wishing we used landscape fabric due to its permeability and toughness. But when we started we did not know how affordable it is.

Weeds, or unwanted plants, have been a big issue. When growing directly below the haskap they compete for water and they bully the haskaps pushing them to the side, being down right bully’s. The “weeds” grasses and dandelions in any other locations are desirable.

To remedy this we are trailing a couple different mulches; wood and hemp fiber.

Mulch Testing Results after 2023

After 5 years of testing putting down hemp fiber provides a 75% weed suppression for the entire year, the 2nd year only a 20% weed suppression. Where it is best to re apply each spring. In comparison weeds reduce plant growth annually 25%.

Still more testing is needed. Only time will prove the best method.