Mvkehoe wrote:

I know that fresh wood shavings or chips deplete nitrogen from the soil. But
how fresh is fresh? Some limbs were cut up and chipped near us in February so
enquiring minds would like to know! Many thanks in advance,
Vonnie

Have good soil, you are creating a water restraining artificial
environment. Most everyone does, me too, but that is the answer to the
question, it's not how much you lose, but what you use.