In this Guest Post, Tracey Sidwell from Bale Grow talks about straw bale gardening.  I have read about this concept but had never actually seen it in action. That was until I met Tracey and saw for myself her fabulous straw bale gardens.
I often get asked what is the best way for kids to have a vegie patch in a rented property, I think straw bales may be about the perfect solution.
xx Erica
Straw Bale Gardening with BaleGrow
As a mum, nothing makes me happier than seeing my kids eat fresh veggies; especially when they can pick them straight from our garden. With almost no gardening experience and limited space, the kids and I have had a ball with our straw bale garden. I figured lots of other families would love this just as much, which is how BaleGrow was born.
What is straw bale gardening?
Straw bale gardening is simple. Instead of planting into soil, we use straw bales – prepared in a special way – to plant our vegetables and herbs. This produces amazing crops all year round. It’s perfect for beginners who want to grow their own vegetables, right up to experienced gardeners who want to try something different.
How does it work?
We prepare the straw bales using a conditioning treatment, which softens the straw and gets it ready for planting. Vegetable seedlings thrive in this unique environment and you will see amazing results in a short time. You could be harvesting lettuce within 4 short weeks!
Can I make one myself?
BaleGrow makes it super easy to create your very own straw bale garden. Our kits come with everything you need to get started. Then when your straw bale garden is ready for planting, just pop down to your local garden centre to choose your favourite seedlings, or even better, grow your own seedlings using a Planet Eco Vegie Patch Kit..
How long will my straw bale garden last?
You can keep planting and growing in your straw bales for up to 12 months. After this period, you are then left with a beautiful composted straw bale, full of worms that can be used in your existing garden.  Or what I prefer to do is transfer this into pots where you can continue to grow delicious goodies for your family.
What are the advantages of a straw bale garden?
With straw bale gardening, there is:

• No permanent structure
• No soil
• No weeding
• Affordable set up costs
• Little room required

Once you try straw bale gardening, you will be hooked!
Tracey Sidwell
BaleGrow
www.balegrow.com.au
info@balegrow.com.au