Straw

Straw as a soil material

Straw has long been used by growers as a soil cover and compost ingredient. Traditionally, it helped protect soil from weather, reduce moisture loss, and add carbon back into the soil. Its value goes beyond nutrients straw supports soil structure, protects surfaces, and provides a habitat for soil life.

What straw does in the soil

Straw is rich in carbon and breaks down slowly, making it a key part of healthy soil systems. As it decomposes, straw:

  • Protects the soil surface
  • Improves structure and airflow
  • Feeds soil organisms
  • Helps regulate temperature and moisture

By supporting these functions, straw creates the conditions that soil life needs to thrive.

Why surface protection matters

Bare soil is vulnerable — it loses moisture, structure, and microbial activity. Covering soil with straw helps:

  • Reduce evaporation
  • Suppress weeds
  • Protect roots from temperature extremes

This simple practice improves soil resilience, keeping it healthy between crops and through challenging weather.

Why we use straw in our growing system

In our system, straw supports soil condition and plant protection rather than acting as a direct fertiliser. It helps us:

  • Protect soil between crops
  • Improve compost quality
  • Support soil biology over time

Straw is also a key ingredient in Thatcher’s Mulch and Compost Booster, where it:

  • Protects soil surfaces
  • Improves compost structure and airflow
  • Supports decomposition and soil life

It plays a quiet but essential role in our soil-first approach, especially in protecting delicate plants like soft fruit shrubs.