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Submitted by Shared Roots on Wed, 02/12/2014 - 8:30pm
The nitrogen deficiency problems with the straw bale system are caused by the rapid decomposition of your straw.
The same goes for hugelkultur construction - OP Michael states that hugelkultur is made of decaying wood, but it is best long term to bury as much fresh green wood as possible so that it decays slower. As it decays over decades, it becomes a groundwater sponge and nutrient/bacteria accumulator and makes irrigation very minimal or unneeded.
Here's probably the definitive hugelkultur article online from Paul Wheaton: Hugelkultur Guide.
The nitrogen deficiency problems with the straw bale system are caused by the rapid decomposition of your straw.
The same goes for hugelkultur construction - OP Michael states that hugelkultur is made of decaying wood, but it is best long term to bury as much fresh green wood as possible so that it decays slower. As it decays over decades, it becomes a groundwater sponge and nutrient/bacteria accumulator and makes irrigation very minimal or unneeded.
Here's probably the definitive hugelkultur article online from Paul Wheaton: Hugelkultur Guide.