"Harry Ziman" hziman at clara dot co dot uk wrote in message
...
We have a very large quantity of wood chippings - 3 yards or more. I would
like to use them to mulch our newly planted garden but we are being
advised
not as it will prevent the water from getting through to the young plants.

Some of the garden was planted last autumn and was mulched then with 2
inches or manure. The rest has just been planted and has not been mulched.
My thoughts are to mulch the older parts in the autumn as there is plenty
of
manure left on/in the ground. For the newer bits to get some more manure
to
act as mulch/feed/soil conditioner.

Advice would be welcome.

______________
The wood chippings will give no problems. The water will
still penetrate with ease. As the ground has been well manured then there
will be no need to add nitrogen. The process of rotting does temporarily
consume nitrogen but this will be released fairly promptly.
If you like the appearance of wood chippings then do so. I
still have personal reservations.
Best Wishes Brian 'flayb' to respond