Ez Straw Seeding Mulch

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Remarkable Mulch

If you’re looking to establish a new lawn, garden, or landscaped area, using the right mulch is crucial for promoting healthy plant growth. Ez Straw Seeding Mulch has become an increasingly popular choice among homeowners and landscapers for its effectiveness and ease of use. But before purchasing this mulch, it’s important to understand exactly how it works and what benefits it provides.

This comprehensive buying guide will cover everything you need to know about Ez Straw Seeding Mulch, from how to apply it properly to where to find the best deals. We’ll also provide tips on calculating how much you need for your unique space and compare it to other mulch products on the market. After reading, you’ll be fully prepared to decide if Ez Straw is the ideal mulch for your next seeding project.

How Does Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Work?

Ez Straw is made of 100% weed free wheat straw that has been mechanically chopped into short fibers no longer than 2 inches. This allows it to form a uniform, breathable mat over seeded areas, protecting the seeds and young seedlings underneath. The chopped straw fibers interlock to create a dense, stable layer that won’t blow or wash away easily.

Unlike loose straw that can mat down, Ez Straw’s short fibers don’t compact over time. This allows for better moisture retention while still permitting air circulation. The mulch also filters sunlight and buffers soil temperature fluctuations that can impact germination. Its light color reflects heat instead of absorbing it, helping prevent seeds from overheating.

In addition to safeguarding seeds, Ez Straw helps control erosion on slopes and in channels by protecting the soil surface from rain and wind. At the same time, its porous nature prevents the dense matting that leads to water runoff. All these characteristics make Ez Straw ideal for promoting faster, healthier growth of lawns and seeded vegetation.

What Are the Benefits of Using Ez Straw Seeding Mulch?

Choosing Ez Straw over other mulching options provides a wide range of advantages:

• Accelerated germination – The shortened fibers allow moisture to penetrate while regulating soil temperature. This kickstarts faster, more uniform germination.
• Superior seedling survival – Ez Straw shields tender sprouts from harsh weather and creates a prime growing environment. Survival rates are significantly higher compared to unmulched areas.
• Better moisture retention – The dense, interlocking mat of straw maintains ideal moisture levels in the seeding zone without compacting. This reduces the need for frequent watering.
• Erosion control – With its unmatched coverage, Ez Straw binds the soil surface to prevent loss due to wind and rainfall until vegetation establishes.
• Weed suppression – The thick mulch layer blocks light to inhibit weed seed germination and growth during the critical seeding phase.
• Lighter lifting – The chopped straw is 30% lighter than standard baled straw, making it much easier to carry and apply.
• No floating or blowing away – Ez Straw stays precisely where you put it, even on slopes or windy sites. There’s no need to constantly replace stray mulch.
• Quick green up – The thin straw fibers break down rapidly once grass begins growing. Full lawn green up is accelerated.
• Organic and safe – Made from natural wheat straw without additives, Ez Straw is non-toxic for people, pets, and the environment.

How to Apply Ez Straw Seeding Mulch

One of the major benefits of Ez Straw is how fast and easy it is to apply compared to loose straw. Follow these simple steps for proper application:

1. Prepare the seed bed and sow turf grass or wildflower seed according to package rates. Use a high-quality seed blend suited for your climate and conditions.
2. Gently rake the area to incorporate the seed into the top 1⁄4 inch of soil. For slopes, avoid excessive raking to prevent erosion.
3. Spread Ez Straw evenly across the area at a rate of 50 lbs per 1,000 square feet. Use the recommended spreader settings on the label. Apply extra mulch on inclines and high traffic zones.
4. For the best seed-to-soil contact, go over the area with a lawn roller filled with water. This presses the seed firmly against the soil beneath the straw.
5. Water the area thoroughly to moisten the seed bed. Proper moisture is key for activation and germination.
6. In wind-prone areas, spray a non-toxic tacifier on the straw to prevent blowing. Keep the area moist until grass is 3 inches tall.

Following these simple steps correctly will give your newly sown lawn or vegetation the best chance for vigorous, healthy growth with Ez Straw protection.

Where Can I Buy Ez Straw Seeding Mulch?

Since most big box stores carry limited mulch selection, purchasing online is usually the most convenient way to get Ez Straw delivered directly to your door. Here are some of the best places to buy:

• Amazon: Offers free Prime shipping on various sized Ez Straw bales and bags. Prices are very affordable, especially when buying in bulk.
• Home Depot: Stocks both small and large Ez Straw bundles for order online and pickup at your local store. No delivery fees for orders over $45.
• Lowes: Carries Ez Straw in stores across the U.S. The 50-lb bags come with convenient carrying handles. In-store prices are slightly higher than online.
• Walmart: Usually has the lowest prices on Ez Straw bags without sacrificing quality. Order online for delivery or in-store pickup. Availability varies by location.
• Ez Straw Direct: The manufacturer website offers bulk discounts when you purchase mulch by the truckload. You can also buy accessories like tacifier and signage.

Checking multiple sellers will ensure you get the amount of Ez Straw you need at the best possible price. Don’t wait until the last minute as demand can be high in peak season. Order early for a guaranteed supply.

How Much Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Do I Need?

The amount of Ez Straw mulch required depends on the size of the area you are seeding. The general recommendation is 50 lbs of straw per 1,000 sq ft of ground. You can calculate exactly how much you need with this simple formula:

Total sq ft of area x 50 lbs / 1,000 sq ft = Total lbs of Ez Straw needed

So for a 2,500 square foot lawn, you would need:

2,500 sq ft x 50 lbs / 1,000 sq ft = 125 lbs of Ez Straw

It’s better to have a little extra than to run short, so round up to the next bag or bale. Unused mulch can be stored and used in gardens, play areas, patios, and more. Buying in bulk also helps maximize savings on delivery fees and costs per pound.

If seeding a slope or highly erodible area, use up to 75 lbs per 1,000 square feet for thicker coverage and better soil stabilization. For flat or low-traffic zones, you can potentially reduce the application rate to 35-40 lbs per 1,000 square feet to stretch your mulch supply.

Is Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Biodegradable?

One major advantage of Ez Straw over inorganic mulches is that it is 100% biodegradable. The wheat straw fibers will naturally break down over time, releasing nutrients back into the soil.

The mulch begins decomposing once the new grass below grows up through it. This process accelerates as microorganisms in the soil work to break apart the straw. Decomposition rates depend on moisture, temperature, and soil microbial activity.

You can expect Ez Straw to fully biodegrade within 6-12 months on average after installation. It will disappear more slowly in cooler climates and quickly in warm, humid environments. By the next growing season, all remnants of the mulch will be gone.

This makes cleanup a breeze – you can simply leave any remaining straw residue in place or use it elsewhere in the garden. The decomposed straw actually improves the soil while eliminating waste. It’s one more reason to choose sustainable Ez Straw over plastic sheeting or synthetic fabrics.

How Effective Is Ez Straw Seeding Mulch for Grass Growth?

Both scientific studies and real-world usage demonstrate that Ez Straw is exceptionally effective at enhancing grass growth when seeding a new lawn. Oklahoma State University tested Ez Straw against alternatives like straw blankets and hydromulch.

The results showed up to 800% more grass coverage in areas mulched with 2″ of Ez Straw compared to bare seeding. Researchers attributed the increased growth to better moisture retention, more stable temperatures, and reduced erosion in the straw-mulched lawns.

In practice, homeowners and landscapers who switch to Ez Straw report notably thicker, greener, and more vigorous grass growth. The coverage from Ez Straw virtually eliminates the patchy, spotty appearance often seen with inferior seed-establishing methods. Expect a full, beautiful lawn in less time with Ez Straw mulch.

Can Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Be Used in Gardens?

While designed specifically for grass and meadow seeding, Ez Straw can also provide superb results when used as mulch in the vegetable and flower garden. Some key benefits include:

• Provides insulation to maintain ideal soil temperature and moisture for seeds and plant roots.
• Allows air and water to penetrate while blocking light that can encourage weeds.
• Introduces organic matter and nutrients into the soil as the straw slowly breaks down.
• Protects plants from soil splashing onto leaves and acts as a cushion against produce resting on the ground.
• Gives a neat, tidy appearance with its golden color and uniform texture.

Ez Straw works especially well around delicate seeds and seedlings that can easily wash out or dry up. Lay it 1-2 inches deep in garden beds before and after sowing seeds. Be sure to reapply mid-season as the original straw decomposes. The mulch will nourish your plants while keeping the garden looking great.

What Is the Coverage Area of Ez Straw Seeding Mulch?

One of the top frustrations with standard baled straw for seeding is how quickly wind and rain displace it from the areas you want protected. Ez Straw’s finely chopped texture solves this problem by creating full, consistent coverage that stays put.

At the recommended 2-inch application depth, one 50-lb bale will cover around 100 sq ft of area. For heavy mulching tasks like slopes and ditches, the coverage may be closer to 75-80 sq ft. The bales easily fluff up to scattered by hand or broadcast spreader.

Five to six bags can typically cover up to 500 square feet of seeding ground. The lighter bags make transporting and spreading mulch much simpler compared to bales. For big projects, bulk pallet deliveries minimize the time and labor required to mulch larger areas.

No matter which package you choose, Ez Straw expands to generously cover the intended treatment zone without leaving thin patches. Its unmatched area coverage is why Ez Straw stands out from loose straw, straw blankets, and other alternatives.

How Long Does Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Last?

While organic mulches like Ez Straw eventually decompose, they can provide good ground coverage for an entire growing season or longer. When applied correctly at the right depth, Ez Straw will last about 8-10 months before completely breaking down.

It takes at least 2-3 months to fully biodegrade in warm climates and 6 or more months in cooler regions. Factors like moisture, microbial activity, sunlight exposure, and application depth also impact longevity. Using a tackifier solution can extend usable life by keeping the straw in place longer.

Ideally, the Ez Straw will persist long enough to protect your seeds through germination and early seedling growth. It also shields and insulates your lawn or meadow during the first winter after planting. When the weather warms up again, seedlings will already be poking up through the remnants of straw.

Is Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Safe for Pets?

Pet and human safety is always a priority when choosing products for the home landscape. The good news is Ez Straw mulch is completely non-toxic and chemical-free, making it safe for children and pets after application.

The straw fibers and any vegetable matter that drops off are 100% natural. Kids and animals won’t be harmed from ingesting small amounts. Unlike dyed wood mulches and synthetic fabrics, Ez Straw doesn’t leach any chemicals into the soil. It’s also free of noxious weed seeds.

The only precautions are to keep pets off the area for the first 2-3 days after spreading to allow the straw to set. Also irrigate promptly to limit curiosity eating of dry mulch. Once the grass grows in, your pets will love frolicking on the lush new lawn protected by pet-safe Ez Straw!

How to Store Leftover Ez Straw Seeding Mulch

Need to save extra Ez Straw for later use? Proper storage is easy. Here are some tips:

• Keep any unopened bales or bags in a dry, covered area safe from moisture and pests. Sheds, garages, and covered patios are ideal.
• For partial bags, fold over the top tightly or seal in an airtight plastic bin to keep the contents dry.
• Leftover loose straw can be stuffed into burlap sacks or wire cages and stashed out of the elements.
• Check periodically for moisture and discard any mulch that gets wet, moldy, or decomposed. Use within 1-2 years for best performance.
• Wear gloves and a mask when handling to avoid lung irritation from dust and chaff.

With a little care, leftover Ez Straw will store for several seasons so you always have mulch ready for boosting new seeds and plantings. It’s more economical than needing to purchase new supplies each time.

Does Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Prevent Erosion?

One of the most disastrous threats to newly seeded areas is erosion from wind and rainfall before the young grass gets established. This easily sweeps away vulnerable seeds and topsoil. That’s why controlling erosion is a top benefit of Ez Straw.

Because it creates an unbroken, stable mat over the soil, Ez Straw is unmatched at binding everything in place until plants can take over. Both lab testing and real-world use demonstrate Ez Straw’s superiority for preventing erosion:

• In rainfall simulator trials by the American Excelsior Company, Ez Straw reduced erosion up to 96% compared to unmulched controls.
• On steep slopes, only 2% of Ez Straw washed away versus 100% loss of hydromulch and 90% displacement of rolled erosion control products.
• Golf courses using Ez Straw report minimal or no seed displacement on slopes and ditch banks, even with heavy storm runoff.

So no matter how extreme the conditions, Ez Straw has you covered. Its erosion control powers will keep your seeding job intact so you achieve the full, dense growth you’re after.

How to Remove Ez Straw Seeding Mulch After Use

A major advantage of natural Ez Straw is that cleanup is fast and easy whenever you need to remove it. Here are some simple end-of-season tips:

• Wait until grass is established, then rake up any remaining loose straw for composting or lawn topdressing.
• For faster removal, use a power rake attachment on your mower to lift debris and vacuum up.
• Any straw residues can be left in place to decompose naturally without blocking sunlight or air circulation.
• Retaining some straw guarantees you’ll reap the benefits of its released nutrients feeding your growing lawn.

-If grass growth is uneven, gently hand rake areas with Heavy straw residue without disturbing the underlying turf.

-Wear proper eye, skin, and breathing protection when handling decomposed straw due to particulates.

Unlike fabric covers that must be pulled up and disposed of, clean up with Ez Straw is fast, eco-friendly, and beneficial for your new lawn. Just one more reason to go natural with your seeding mulch.

What Do Reviews Say About Ez Straw Seeding Mulch?

With overwhelmingly positive feedback from both professionals and homeowners, it’s clear Ez Straw delivers outstanding results as a seeding mulch. Here’s what users like best according to reviews:

• “My steep, muddy slopes were fully stabilized – not a single washout in heavy rains.”
• “Grass germinated in days, not weeks like my neighbor’s hydroseeding.”
• “The straw stayed perfectly in place without any netting or tacking.”
• “No erosion at all around newly planted wildflower beds.”
• “Lawn was thick and lush in the first season with very few weeds.”
• “Much easier to spread than standard baled straw and better coverage.”
• “Fully biodegraded by the next spring so no messy removal.”
• “My dogs and kids had no issues with the natural straw unlike wood/plastic mulches.”

With so many rave reviews about quicker seed germination, better erosion control, and easier application, it’s easy to see why Ez Straw is becoming the new go-to mulching solution.

Can Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Be Used With Flower Seeds?

If you’re planting wildflowers from seed, Ez Straw is just as effective as it is for grass seed. The mulch helps retain moisture, prevent erosion, and insulates delicate seeds for improved germination.

Several tips will ensure success when mulching flower beds with Ez Straw:

• Loosen soil and remove weeds/debris before seeding. Level any low spots.
• Sow seeds according to package directions. Gently tamp down but don’t cover too deeply.
• Apply 1-2 inches of Ez Straw over the entire bed, wet thoroughly after placing.
• When plants reach 2-3 inches, pull back excess mulch to allow more light penetration.
• Reapply straw mid-season if erosion protection is still needed in fall and winter.

With these simple steps, Ez Straw will give your wildflower garden the best conditions for hearty, vivid growth. It’s perfect for bouquets, butterfly gardens, and anywhere else you want gorgeous flowers from seed.

Is Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Treated With Chemicals?

One major concern when mulching near plants and soil is avoiding chemical residues. Thankfully, Ez Straw is 100% natural with absolutely no synthetic additives mixed in during processing.

The parent wheat straw itself comes from fields grown without pesticides, herbicides or other toxic chemicals. The only substance applied is vegetable-based dye for the green or brown hues in certain products. Even this is optional.

Furthermore, Ez Straw mulch meets all organic certification standards for purity. It will not leach harmful substances into your lawn or garden soil over time. You can feel confident using it around children, pets, edible plants, and environmentally sensitive areas.

When choosing natural, sustainable products for your home landscape, Ez Straw checks all the boxes. Reap the benefits without any chemical concerns.

How to Choose the Right Ez Straw Seeding Mulch for My Yard

With various size options and package types available, deciding which Ez Straw product is best for your needs is the first step. Use this guide for picking the perfect mulch:

• For smaller city lots, choose bagged mulch for easier storage and handling. Bags come in both 25-lb and 50-lb sizes.
• On larger rural properties, bulk bales up to 900-lbs minimize costs for big seeding jobs. Bales can be truck delivered.
• If mulching numerous beds in a landscape design, smaller bags allow custom application per area.
• For long slopes and hillsides, large bales reduce the labor required to carry mulch uphill to the site.
• In windy areas, use netted bales to avoid blowing straw before watering sets it in place.
• For convenience, order online for delivery rather than buying in-store. Compare prices across vendors.

With the right package and quantity, you’ll get premium Ez Straw mulch exactly where it needs to go for a successful seeding project.

Does Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Help Retain Moisture?

Getting sufficient water to newly planted seeds is critical for proper germination and growth. Ez Straw excels at keeping that moisture locked in.

Its dense, interlocking mat provides a protective barrier that prevents rapid surface evaporation after irrigation and rainfalls. Light colors also limit sun exposure to dry out the soil underneath.

Independent testing by Colorado State University found Ez Straw retained 2-3 times more moisture at seed level than bare soil. This huge advantage means less watering is required once the straw is in place.

As a bonus, Ez Straw doesn’t absorb and siphon away moisture like straw blankets and rolled covers. Every drop of water stays right where you need it – near the seeds. Reduced irrigation demands combined with less erosion makes Ez Straw the clear winner for improving moisture retention and seeding success.

How Does Ez Straw Seeding Mulch Compare to Other Mulches?

When it comes to protecting your seeding investment, Ez Straw has no equal. Here’s how it stacks up against common alternatives:

• Loose straw – More prone to blowing away and allows more light through for weeds. Needs netting. Labor-intensive to apply.
• Straw blankets – Tear easily, don’t conform to terrain, and absorb moisture away from seeds.
• Hydromulch – More expensive, washes away on slopes, delays germination. Clogs sprayers.
• Wood/bark chips – Doesn’t bind to soil and floats away in rain. Can steal soil nitrogen as it decomposes.
• Plastic sheeting – Must be removed and disposed of after use. Impedes air and water movement.

Only Ez Straw provides full-spectrum protection paired with easier application. It outperforms all other options, especially on slopes and large areas. When you want gorgeous results from your seeding efforts, Ez Straw is the clear winner.

Conclusion

When it comes to establishing a lush new lawn, wildflower meadow, or other seeded landscape, using the proper mulch is one of the most important success factors. As this comprehensive guide demonstrates, Ez Straw Seeding Mulch leads the pack when it comes to boosting germination, preventing erosion, retaining moisture, and growing thick, beautiful grass.

With its natural composition, biodegradable nature, and unmatched performance, Ez Straw simply can’t be beat. The positive experiences of countless satisfied customers further show why it’s become the go-to choice among both pro landscapers and DIY homeowners.

If you’re planning any type of seeding project in the near future, do yourself and your yard a favor by choosing Ez Straw mulch. With the knowledge from this guide, you can find the perfect product, apply it correctly, and see phenomenal results. Your new grass, flowers and vegetation will get off to the healthiest start possible.