SMC/ Bracken compost

MGM30IE · Posted: Wed Jan 07, 2015 1:20 pm Post subject: SMC/ Bracken compost

Hi,

I'll be conducting an experiment in a few weeks on alternatives to peat as a growing media and I was wondering would anybody have an idea as to where I might get some spent mushroom compost and is there anyone in Ireland currently producing bracken compost?

Thank you.

Martin

Blowin · Posted: Thu Jan 08, 2015 6:52 am Post subject:

If you browse http://www.irelandlookup.com/Mushroom_Growers/ that'll provide possible sources of spent compost. Just select the most convenient for you.

I'm not conversant with the science of the subject but you ought to check how the cyanide content in bracken might affect compost. However, I don't suppose farmers will object to you gathering it off their land UNLESS they're taking part in the export scheme to S Korea where, suitably treated, it's regarded as a food delicacy.

About 20 years ago I did use cut bracken from a common in the UK as a weed suppressant after the local council had conveniently cut it. For that purpose it worked well and settled down into a very black, moist medium if that helps.