when should i apply my first feeding?

by Amy
(Minnesota)

This is my first time trying straw bale gardening. I watered my bales today and will wait 5-7 days before planting. Is there a way to tell when it is ready for planting? I would love to start in 5 days but also don't want to hurt my plants. Also, when should I apply my first feeding after planting?

Thanks!
Amy


Doug says that you can start planting when the bales have finished heating and are cool enough you can comfortably put your wrist onto the middle of the bale where your plant roots will be. If it's too hot for your wrist - it's too hot for tender plant roots.

First feeding? Hmm, fairly simple, you do it when you want your plants to start growing. :-) Then follow the schedule as per the article.