{"title":"Plant Protection, Mulch \u0026 Irrigation","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe love wildlife! But sometimes wildlife loves our plants a bit too much. Our products are a kinder way of protecting precious plants. There's no need to treat weeds with herbicides or pests with pesticides. These harmful chemicals get into the food chain and do a lot of damage. We've got a range of products that deter rather than destroy, and they are surprisingly effective. We also have a range of mulch products that retain water and regulate temperature as well as keeping weeds and pests at bay. Our ollas are an efficient traditional way of irrigating plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"bamboo-skewers-pack-of-40","title":"Bamboo Pegs Pack of 40","description":"\u003cp\u003eA while ago, the only pegs available for mulch mats were made of plastic. We really didn't want to sell compostable mulch mats with bits of plastic that would stay in the ground for centuries. So we used cocktail skewers which did a reasonable job but were a little flimsy and could be faffy to insert. We still have these in the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/wildflower-seed-mat-kit\" title=\"Wildflower seedmat kit is a perfect way of learning about no dig gardening\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewildflower seedmat kit\u003c\/a\u003e as they are perfect for small projects like this. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever. I am delighted to say that now there are proper, robust bamboo pegs available. These can be stamped or hammered in as necessary. These are particularly useful with our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/collections\/plant-protection\" title=\"bamboo pegs for pegging down mulch mats\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elarger square mats\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/sheep-wool-garden-felt?variant=46063469363506\" title=\"wool felt for the garden, useful for a wide range of natural gardening applications\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003erolls of garden felt\u003c\/a\u003e,  and rolls of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/jute-mulch-roll?variant=46062247313714\" title=\"25 metre rolls of jute matting are ideal for mulching large areas of the garden, or for mulch for hedges\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ejute matting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuite often, what we find is that once it gets wet, and grass underneath sort of grows into it in an attempt to get through, it makes it adhere to the ground and the material it's mulching contributes to the mulching properties of the mat. So they don't necessarily need pegging down. But it makes a neater job of it, especially in locations prone to wind.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimply arrange the mat around the base of the tree. You may need to stamp down any weeds or grass that's already protruding. If it's long don't bother to cut it, just trample it down. Then peg each corner down with a bamboo skewer. There are 40 in a pack, enough to go with up to 10 of our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/100cm-square-individual-jute-mulch-mat\" title=\"100cm Square Individual Jute Mulch Mat\"\u003e100cm x 100cm mulch mats\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45985465467186,"sku":"MM010","price":4.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Bamboo_Garden_Skewers_New_Improved_2048.jpg?v=1755783373"},{"product_id":"grazers-g1-rabbit-pigeon-and-deer-deterrent","title":"Grazers G1 Rabbit, Pigeon and Deer Deterrent","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile we don’t wish wildlife any harm, we do want to stop some creatures from ravaging our trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables. Grazers G1 Rabbit, Pigeon \u0026amp; Deer Deterrent includes a solution that will control these pests while giving your precious plants an added boost, and  it will also put off mice, voles and squirrels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow does it stop pests?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrazers G1 formula, which is based around the plant nutrient calcium, was developed as a mineral growth enhancer for crops, but it soon became clear that the plants that had been treated were being avoided by pests, so the manufacturer decided to market it as a natural pest control product too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe solution makes the plant taste bitter to the animals and birds that would usually eat it, which means they leave it alone. As well as acting as a Rabbit, Pigeon and Deer Deterrent, the solution also enhances growth and strengthens the plant. So, by applying this product, you’re effectively helping the plant to help itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou need to anticipate the pests and spray the plants before damage is caused, repeating the process every six weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy is this Grazers G1 Rabbit, Pigeon and Deer Deterrent better than chemical pest control products?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSynthetic products can be very effective, but they pose a serious threat to the environment.  They also threaten the future of the food chain. Chemical fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides poison our waters, our soils, other living creatures and our own bodies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eFor how long is the product effective?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrazers G1 formula is absorbed by the plant and grows with it. It lasts for up to six weeks after which it should be reapplied. Is Grazers G1 Formula harmful to humans or pets? No. The main ingredient is a form of calcium, which is totally harmless to people, pets and the environment. Grazers G1 formula has been successfully used by farmers since 1999 and is safe to use on both edible and ornamental plants. If applying to vegetables or salad crops, it’s recommended that you wait a week before harvesting them as it may have a subtle effect on the taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is loads of useful information available about damage caused by these pests. If rabbits are your issue, try this \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.which.co.uk\/reviews\/gardening-through-the-year\/article\/guides\" title=\"Gardening guides, which.co.uk website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewebsite\u003c\/a\u003e or you can find out more about tackling deer \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.rhs.org.uk\/biodiversity\/deer\" title=\"Deer, RHS website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e. If pigeons are attacking your plants, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.rhs.org.uk\/biodiversity\/pigeons\" title=\"Pigeons, RHS website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e are some useful tips.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eDo you sell any other natural pest control products?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, lots! Take a look \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/plant-protection\" title=\"Plant protection collection\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e! We can help you protect your plants and homes from all sorts of wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grazers","offers":[{"title":"750ml Spray Bottle","offer_id":55334139134330,"sku":"NPC001","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"750ml Concentrate","offer_id":55334139167098,"sku":"NPC001-02","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Grazers-G1-RTU.jpg?v=1692710329"},{"product_id":"grazers-g2-slug-and-snail-deterrent","title":"Grazers G2 Slug and Snail Deterrent","description":"\u003cp\u003eNeeding a slug pellet alternative? Slugs and snails have an important role to play in our gardens, but they can also wreak havoc on our precious plants. Replace your slug pellets with Grazers G2 Slug \u0026amp; Snail Deterrent will help prevent damage while protecting wildlife at the same time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can I stop slugs and snails eating my plants?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpraying your plants with Grazers G2 Slug \u0026amp; Snail Deterrent will help protect them from being damaged by these common garden pests. The solution lasts for around six weeks. It makes the plant taste bitter to the animals and birds that would usually eat it, which means they leave it alone. As well as deterring pests, the solution also enhances growth and strengthens the plant so, by applying this product, you’re helping the plant to help itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow are G2 Slug and Snail Deterrent a natural slug pellet alternative?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSynthetic products such as slug pellets, pose a serious threat to the environment and can get into the food chain. Grazers G2 is an environmentally friendly, natural slug pellet alternative that deters pests without killing them leaving the pests healthy for consumption by their own natural predators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIs this formula harmful to humans or pets?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It’s totally safe to use in areas used by children and pets as the main ingredient is a form of calcium, which is harmless to people and animals. It’s suitable for both edible and ornamental plants, but it’s recommended that you wait a week after treatment before harvesting plants that are to be eaten as it could affect the taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIs there anything else I can do to tackle this problem?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Grazers 2 doesn’t kill the pests, it just puts them off eating the plants, so it’s important to improve the biodiversity in your garden to encourage their natural predators. We sell a range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/wildlife\" title=\"Wildlife collection\"\u003ehomes for wildlife\u003c\/a\u003e and bird food too. Useful information about slugs and snails is available from \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/friendsoftheearth.uk\/nature\/slugs-and-snails-should-we-love-these-gliding-gastropods?gclid=CjwKCAjwvZv0BRA8EiwAD9T2VYLcjBXaQUZqXi2hm7jWGmx6q3YMYjv0LrBsBRdPUYnR-AHrIKP4pxoCSOUQAvD_BwE\" title=\"Slugs and snails, Friends of the Earth website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eFriends of the Earth\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Chimney Sheep sell any other natural pest control products?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. We stock natural moth repellents, as well as sprays to put off other garden pests. Have a look at our\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/plant-protection\" title=\"Plant Protection collection\"\u003e list\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grazers","offers":[{"title":"750ml Spray Bottle","offer_id":55334766084474,"sku":"NPC002","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1L Concentrate","offer_id":55334766117242,"sku":"NPC002-02","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Grazers-G2-RTU.jpg?v=1692710309"},{"product_id":"grazers-g3-cabbage-white-caterpillar-and-aphid-deterrent","title":"Grazers G3 Cabbage White, Caterpillar and Aphid Deterrent","description":"\u003cp\u003eGrazers G3 is a great Cabbage White Butterfly, Caterpillar and Aphid Deterrent. It will stop these pesky creatures from eating your plants, without harming them. They just don't like the taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do I spot the signs of damage?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s easy to tell that your plants, particularly cabbages and other brassicas, have been attacked by these creatures as their leaves will be full of holes. If left unchecked, they will eat the whole plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAphids also damage plants causing flowers and fruit to become distorted or deformed. Some species cause galls, or growths, to form on roots or leaves. They may transmit viruses between plants and often excrete a sticky substance on which sooty moulds can grow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can I stop this?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrazers G3 Cabbage White, Caterpillar and Aphid Deterrent is simple to apply using a spray to ensure even coverage. It lasts for six weeks and is harmless to people, animals and the environment. It’s safe to eat salad crops, fruit and vegetables that have been sprayed with Grazers G3, but we recommend waiting a week before so doing as the solution can have a slight effect on the taste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow does Grazers G3 work?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt makes the plants unpalatable to cabbage white butterflies, caterpillar and aphids. This means they’re less likely to attack the foliage. It also strengthens the plant and stimulates growth, so it helps the plant to look after itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy is it better than chemical pest control products?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s a natural product that is harmless to people and wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIs there anything else I can do to tackle this problem?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrazers G3 doesn’t kill the pests so it’s a good idea to improve biodiversity in the garden to encourage their natural predators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome birds eat the cabbage white butterfly larvae so it’s worth providing feeders and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/wildlife\" title=\"Wildlife category\"\u003enest boxes\u003c\/a\u003e. It’s also helpful to plant lots of flowers and blooming herbs around your cabbage patch to provide a strong supply of nectar for beneficial insects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell boxes for bats, bugs and birds, as well as wildflower seeds. Have a look \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/wildlife\" title=\"Wildlife collection\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information about cabbage white butterflies and caterpillars try this useful BBC \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.bbc.co.uk\/gardening\/advice\/pests_and_diseases\/identifier.shtml?cabbage_white_butterflies\" title=\"Pest and disease advice, BBC website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elink\u003c\/a\u003e or learn more about aphids from the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.rhs.org.uk\/biodiversity\/aphids\" title=\"Aphids, RHS website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRHS\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eCan I buy any other natural pest control products?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. We \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/household-supplies\" title=\"Household supplies collection\"\u003estock\u003c\/a\u003e natural moth repellents and repellents that are effective against other insects that are harmful to health, as well as sprays to deter other garden pests.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grazers","offers":[{"title":"750ml Spray bottle","offer_id":55334872416634,"sku":"NCP003","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1L Concentrate","offer_id":55334872449402,"sku":"NPC003-02","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Grazers-G3-RTU.jpg?v=1692710256"},{"product_id":"grazers-g4-red-lily-beetle-deterrent","title":"Grazers G4 Red Lily Beetle Deterrent","description":"\u003cp\u003eProtect your plants from this greedy little creature with the Grazers G4 Red Lily Beetle Deterrent. It stops this common garden pest from eating the leaves, stem, buds and flowers of lilies, fritillaries and other members of the lily family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat effect does the red lily beetle have on plants?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as spoiling the flowers, attacks in early summer can result in the plant forming undersized bulbs that may not flower the following year. In some parts of the country the beetles are such a problem that some gardeners end up giving up on growing lilies because they can’t save them from these voracious pests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can this Red Lily Beetle Deterrent help?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Grazers G4 formula is an easy-to-use spray which discourages these beetles without doing the plants or the pests any harm. It’s easy to apply and lasts six weeks before the treatment needs to be repeated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s also safe to use without harming people, pets or the environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe product makes the foliage taste unpleasant, so the beetles don’t want to eat it. It doesn’t kill these pests. It just makes them avoid treated plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy is it better to use G4 formula than chemical pest control products?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChemical pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers can be poisonous to people and animals and can cause a threat to food chains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIs there anything else I can do to tackle this problem?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSadly, no. There are no natural predators for red lily beetles, which makes it even more important to treat the plants with Grazers G4 before they’re attacked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes Chimney Sheep sell any other natural pest control products?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. We stock natural moth repellents and repellents that are effective against other insects that are harmful to health, such as ticks, midges and mosquitoes. We also have products that deter pigeons, deer, rabbits and other little creatures. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grazers","offers":[{"title":"750ml Spray bottle","offer_id":55335021117818,"sku":"NCP004","price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1L Concentrate","offer_id":55335021150586,"sku":"NCP004-02","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Grazers-G4-GTU_01.jpg?v=1692710237"},{"product_id":"jute-mulch-mats-10-25cm-pack-of-20","title":"Natural Jute Weed Suppression Mulch Mats 10\"\/25cm Pack of 20","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat is mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMulch is defined as any material that is placed on the surface of cultivated soil, be that over beds, fields or over compost in individual pots. It could be something like our jute mulch mats, cardboard, straw, hay or bark chippings. It’s a technique that’s been around for millennia, but it seems to have fallen out of favour through modern farming methods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, \u003ca title=\"Natural garden mulch products blog\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/natural-garden-mulch-products\"\u003emulch is definitely enjoying a come-back\u003c\/a\u003e due to the increased need for sustainable agriculture and with methods of gardening like the ‘\u003ca title=\"No dig gardening, Charles Dowding website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.charlesdowding.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eno-dig\u003c\/a\u003e’ method.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"The benefits of mulch, scotts.com website\" href=\"https:\/\/scotts.com\/en-us\/lawn-care-101\/the-benefits-of-mulching-how-to-pick-the-right-type-of-mulch-material.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebenefits of mulch are widespread\u003c\/a\u003e, both for domestic gardeners and widescale horticulturalists, farmers and foresters. We have certainly noticed the benefits of mulch our gardens and in our \u003ca title=\"Buy Land Plant Trees page\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/buy-land-plant-trees\"\u003eBuy Land Plant Trees\u003c\/a\u003e project.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are a few of the benefits of mulch:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConserves water\u003c\/strong\u003e – mulch conserves water by reducing water evaporation from the soil. Mulch (in most cases, but particularly in the case of our Mulch Mats) allows water to permeate through it into the soil below. However, the barrier the mulch forms between soil and the air reduces the amount of water that evaporates off the soil’s surface. Studies of mulch in draught-prone countries have demonstrated how the water-saving properties of mulch improve crop growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNaturally suppresses weeds\u003c\/strong\u003e – using mulch to cover soil and compost where plants or crops are growing creates a natural barrier against weeds. The weeds don’t have access to light, can’t photosynthesise, and therefore perish and eventually rot away into the ground.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces competition for water and nutrients\u003c\/strong\u003e – by reducing the number of weeds it ensures that there is less competition for plants. This means they can access more water and nutrients, helping them to grow more effectively! When looking at this in an agricultural context, using mulch reduces the large-scale use of herbicides which is beneficial both to the wider environment and us.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces temperature fluctuations\u003c\/strong\u003e – Mulch protects plant roots against temperature changes by acting as an insulator. They help to regulate soil temperature to keep plant roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter ensuring plants can continue to grow well. Our Mulch Mats are particularly good at this because of their density.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy are Chimney Sheep’s Jute Mulch Mats a great mulch option?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNo faffing required\u003c\/strong\u003e – we love our Mulch Mats because they are quick and easy to use. There is no shovelling, cutting to size or pinning down required. Just slot them around the base of the plant you want to protect and hey presto! They sit firmly on the ground and what we find is that weeds and grass they suppress, sort of grow into the fabric of the jute. They don’t manage to get through but they help to anchor the mulch mat to the soil, so it sits nice and firmly in place.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSuper versatile\u003c\/strong\u003e – our Mulch Mats can be used in gardens, allotments, greenhouses, on house plants – the list is endless! The great thing about them is that you can use them in individual standard plant pots or for putting round individual plants in larger beds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMulch for every plant\u003c\/strong\u003e – because each plant will get its own little bit of mulch all to themselves, the concentration of mulch per plant is much higher than having to share lots of mulch (like with straw or bark chippings) with other plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProvides nutrients for the plants as they compost down\u003c\/strong\u003e – jute is a natural vegetable fibre so once it has composted down, it provides lots of nutrients to help plant growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHelping to deter greedy slugs and snails\u003c\/strong\u003e - while we can never promise that our Mulch Mats will completely deter slugs and snails, they do make it a lot harder for the greedy molluscs to gain access and devour precious plants. We’ve had a lot of success from pre-soaking the mats in the Hole-less Hosta garlic decoction, which seems to have been very effective at persuading the slugs and snails to go and consume something else. Mwah ha ha ha. It’s not kind but nor are they!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade from recycled coffee sacks\u003c\/strong\u003e – jute is such a fantastic fibre which works perfectly for mulch. We don’t like seeing great materials go to waste, so we use recycled jute coffee sacks to make our Mulch Mats.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNo plastic\u003c\/strong\u003e – unlike the polypropylene versions, these Mulch Mats are completely plastic-free which means they will biodegrade and compost down completely, without leaving microplastics in the soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have lots of other sizes of \u003ca title=\"Growing and Planting collection\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/growing-planting\"\u003eMulch Mats\u003c\/a\u003e so why not take a look here to find the perfect size for your garden project! We also make \u003ca title=\"Tree spats pack of 10\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\/products\/jute-tree-spats-pack-of-10\"\u003eJute Tree Spats\u003c\/a\u003e which are perfect for when you are planting baby trees. Need lots of our Mulch Mats or Tree Spats? \u003ca title=\"Contact us\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/contact\"\u003eGet in touch\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46059045912882,"sku":"AI-4B8T-F597","price":15.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenJuly_09.jpg?v=1691140436"},{"product_id":"jute-mulch-mats-8-20cm-pack-of-25","title":"Jute Weed Protection Mulch Mats 8\"\/20cm Pack of 25","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat is mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMulch is defined as any material that is placed on the surface of cultivated soil, be that over beds, fields or over compost in individual pots. It could be something like our jute mulch mats, cardboard, straw, hay or bark chippings. It’s a technique that’s been around for millennia, but it seems to have fallen out of favour through modern farming methods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/natural-garden-mulch-products\" title=\"Natural garden mulch products blog\"\u003emulch is definitely enjoying a come-back\u003c\/a\u003e (hooray!) due to the increased need for sustainable agriculture and with methods of gardening like the ‘\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.charlesdowding.co.uk\" title=\"No dig gardening, Charles Dowding website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eno-dig\u003c\/a\u003e’ method.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/scotts.com\/en-us\/lawn-care-101\/the-benefits-of-mulching-how-to-pick-the-right-type-of-mulch-material.html\" title=\"The benefits of mulch, scotts.com website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebenefits of mulch are widespread\u003c\/a\u003e, both for domestic gardeners and widescale horticulturalists, farmers and foresters. We have certainly noticed the benefits of mulch our gardens and in our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/buy-land-plant-trees\" title=\"Buy Land Plant Trees website\"\u003eBuy Land Plant Trees\u003c\/a\u003e project.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are a few of the benefits of mulch:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConserves water\u003c\/strong\u003e – mulch conserves water by reducing water evaporation from the soil. Mulch (in most cases, but particularly in the case of our Mulch Mats) allows water to permeate through it into the soil below. However, the barrier the mulch forms between soil and the air reduces the amount of water that evaporates off the soil’s surface. Studies of mulch in draught-prone countries have demonstrated how the water-saving properties of mulch improve crop growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNaturally suppresses weeds\u003c\/strong\u003e– using mulch to cover soil and compost where plants or crops are growing creates a natural barrier against weeds. The weeds don’t have access to light, can’t photosynthesise, and therefore perish and eventually rot away into the ground.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces competition for water and nutrients\u003c\/strong\u003e – by reducing the number of weeds it ensures that there is less competition for plants. This means they can access more water and nutrients, helping them to grow more effectively! When looking at this in an agricultural context, using mulch reduces the large-scale use of herbicides which is beneficial both to the wider environment and us.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces temperature fluctuations\u003c\/strong\u003e – Mulch protects plant roots against temperature changes by acting as an insulator. They help to regulate soil temperature to keep plant roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter ensuring plants can continue to grow well. Our Mulch Mats are particularly good at this because of their density.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy are Chimney Sheep’s Jute Mulch Mats a great mulch option?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNo faffing required\u003c\/strong\u003e – we love our Mulch Mats because they are quick and easy to use. There is no shovelling, cutting to size or pinning down required. Just slot them around the base of the plant you want to protect and hey presto! They sit firmly on the ground and what we find is that weeds and grass they suppress, sort of grow into the fabric of the jute. They don’t manage to get through but they help to anchor the mulch mat to the soil, so it sits nice and firmly in place.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSuper versatile\u003c\/strong\u003e – our Mulch Mats can be used in gardens, allotments, greenhouses, on house plants – the list is endless! The great thing about them is that you can use them in individual standard plant pots or for putting round individual plants in larger beds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMulch for every plant\u003c\/strong\u003e – because each plant will get its own little bit of mulch all to themselves, the concentration of mulch per plant is much higher than having to share lots of mulch (like with straw or bark chippings) with other plants. Provides nutrients for the plants as they compost down – jute is a natural vegetable fibre so once it has composted down, it provides lots of nutrients to help plant growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHelping to deter greedy slugs and snails\u003c\/strong\u003e - while we can never promise that our Mulch Mats will completely deter slugs and snails, they do make it a lot harder for the greedy molluscs to gain access and devour precious plants. We’ve had a lot of success from pre-soaking the mats in the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/sheep-trees-grass-and-wool\" title=\"Sheep trees grass and wool blog\"\u003eHole-less Hosta garlic decoction\u003c\/a\u003e, which seems to have been very effective at persuading the slugs and snails to go and consume something else. Mwah ha ha ha. It’s not kind but nor are they!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade from recycled coffee sacks\u003c\/strong\u003e – jute is such a fantastic fibre which works perfectly for mulch. We don’t like seeing great materials go to waste, so we use recycled jute coffee sacks to make our Mulch Mats.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNo plastic\u003c\/strong\u003e – unlike the polypropylene versions, these Mulch Mats are completely plastic-free which means they will biodegrade and compost down completely, without leaving microplastics in the soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have lots of other sizes of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/growing-planting\" title=\"Growing and planting collection\"\u003eMulch Mats \u003c\/a\u003eincluding a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/growing-planting\/products\/jute-mulch-mats-variety-pack-of-60\" title=\"Mulch Mat Variety pack of 60\"\u003evalue variety pack\u003c\/a\u003e so take a look here to find the perfect size for your garden project! We also make \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\/products\/jute-tree-spats-pack-of-10\" title=\"Tree spats pack of 10\"\u003eJute Tree Spats\u003c\/a\u003e which are perfect for when you are planting baby trees. Need lots of our Mulch Mats or tree spats? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/contact\" title=\"Contact us\"\u003eGet in touch!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46059348623666,"sku":"7I-9XTK-NKAG","price":15.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenJuly_04.jpg?v=1742904981"},{"product_id":"jute-tree-spats-pack-of-10","title":"Large Round Mulch Mat Tree Spats Pack of 10","description":"\u003ch4\u003eChemical-free weed contro\u003cstrong\u003el \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe jute disc slots around the base of the plant, supressing other competitive weeds and grasses. The competing plants are deprived of light, and perish. The mats last around two years, which is plenty of time for even the most resilient of weeds to rot away. The Tree Spat Mulch Mat is also ideal for covering bare ground in order to prevent competitive weeds from seeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eConserve water\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mulch mats retain water in the soil, reducing evaporation, meaning you need to water the plants less and retaining moisture for the plant's roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eInhibit Pests\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOkay, so I can't promise that these will keep the slugs off your hostas, but the texture is spiky and rough, making it an unpleasant surface for slugs and snails to cross. If there is a more easy-access plant then they will tend to avoid the jute mats protecting the more tender plants, and go for the easier option.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eNaturally biodegradable\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe jute mulch mats are made of 100% plant material so over time (around one year or a bit more) they will gradually biodegrade introducing nutrients to the plant as it goes. By that time your plant should be big and strong enough to fend for itself or you can just put another mat down. These packs of 10 are more cost-effective but get in touch with us if you want larger quantities or different sizes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do I use biodegradable Tree Spat Mulch Matting?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimply slot your eco-friendly weed mat around the base of your tree sapling, shrub or delicate plant. It should not need any pegging out. Larger bespoke mulch mats can be pegged with bamboo skewers (for mini kebabs!) if you need a biodegradable peg, but we have found with the ones we use that they stay put and do not blow around as the lighter polypropylene tree spats do.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"13.5\"\/35cm","offer_id":46060242829618,"sku":"T3-V70B-EEXH","price":13.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"16\"\/40cm","offer_id":46060242862386,"sku":"XD-7Z4S-L4IT","price":15.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenJuly_08.jpg?v=1691141809"},{"product_id":"square-mulch-mats-pack-of-10","title":"Square Natural Mulch Mats Pack of 10","description":"\u003cp\u003eYoung trees suffer from root shock when they are transplanted and need a lot of care in their first few years of life. Weeds around the base need to be removed regularly, either by using appropriate herbicides, hand weeding, or careful strimming. They also need to be regularly watered. Our square jute mulch mats make this a whole lot easier, saving time, money and chemicals. Our square jute mulch mats simply slot around the base of the young tree, suffocating weeds and retaining water. They also protect the delicate roots from extreme temperature fluctuations. They are 5mm thick so are quite robust, especially once they’ve got some water soaked into them, and last around a year before they slowly biodegrade into the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of using square mulch mats for young trees?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to horticultural expert Don Kinzler, “if grass is allowed to compete with a tree, the tree will grow slower in both height and trunk diameter compared to a tree grown in bare soil. If you add mulch over the bare soil, the tree’s rate of growth increases compared to both bare soil and grass. This is so important it merits restating. Trees growing in grass have the slowest increase in height and trunk diameter. Trees in bare soil grow next best, and trees with mulch over the root zone have the greatest rate of growth” Read more about it \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/sheep-trees-grass-and-wool\" title=\"Sheep Trees Grass and Wool blog\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDo the mulch mats need to be pegged down?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike polypropylene mulch mats, the mulch mats tend to sit firmly on the soil without needing to be pegged out. You may find with the square ones that the corners lift a little before they embed in, in which case we recommend pegging them down with bamboo skewers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eIs there an issue with the square jute mulch mats tree spinning in the wind, creating bark damage?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The 5mm thick mulch mats are quite heavy, and will stay put, even in windy conditions. We've used them in extremely windy locations in Cumbria without any problem. However that's because they stay wet most of the time. If you're using them somewhere where it's very dry, you may wish to secure them with pegs to be on the safe side. We've never had any issues reported to us though.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDo you do discounts on larger volume orders?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes! We like orders of 1000+ mulch mats! Our discounts start at 100 mats so contact us for a quote at info@chimneysheep.co.uk\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat's the difference between a round one and a square mulch mat?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe round ones tend to look a bit neater around the base of trees. The square jute mulch mats give you more mulch for your money and if you do want to peg them out they are better suited to being pegged. It's all a matter of preference really, they both do a good job!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"40cm Square","offer_id":46061040959794,"sku":"HR-JFNZ-T0LM","price":15.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"50cm Square","offer_id":46061040992562,"sku":"50x50Mat","price":26.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"60cm Square","offer_id":46061041025330,"sku":"60x60mat","price":31.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenJuly_16.jpg?v=1691142711"},{"product_id":"100cm-square-individual-jute-mulch-mat","title":"Square Jute Mulch Mat 100cm","description":"\u003cp\u003eYoung trees suffer from root shock when they are transplanted and need a lot of care in their first few years of life. Weeds around the base need to be removed regularly, either by using appropriate herbicides, hand weeding, or careful strimming. They also need to be regularly watered. Our 100cm jute mulch mat tree spats make this a whole lot easier, saving time, money and chemicals. Our biodegradable tree spat mulch mats simply slot around the base of the young tree, suffocating weeds and retaining water. They also protect the delicate roots from extreme temperature fluctuations. They are 5mm thick so are quite robust, especially once they’ve got some water soaked into them, and last around a year before they slowly biodegrade into the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of using mulch mats for young trees?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to horticultural expert Don Kinzler, “if grass is allowed to compete with a tree, the tree will grow slower in both height and trunk diameter compared to a tree grown in bare soil. If you add mulch over the bare soil, the tree’s rate of growth increases compared to both bare soil and grass. This is so important it merits restating. Trees growing in grass have the slowest increase in height and trunk diameter. Trees in bare soil grow next best, and trees with mulch over the root zone have the greatest rate of growth” Read more about it \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/sheep-trees-grass-and-wool\" title=\"Sheep Trees Grass and Wool blog\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDo the mulch mats need to be pegged down?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike polypropylene mulch mats, the mulch mats tend to sit firmly on the soil without needing to be pegged out. These large ones will take a while to bed in, so it's recommended that they are pegged out. You can use the commercially available plastic pegs, metal pegs, or we use biodegradable bamboo skewers. They don't last as long but after a few weeks the weeds sort of mesh themselves into the underneath of the mat and help to hold it in place, after which it's not so necessary to peg them down anyway.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDo you do discounts on larger volume orders?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes! Our discounts start at 100 mats so contact us for a quote at info@chimneysheep.co.uk\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease note that unlike the other mats, these don't have a central hole or slit for tucking around the base of a tree. They are used for a range of tree sizes so it's best if you cut a nick in the centre yourself when fitting it around the base of the tree. If it's got a thin stem then it will just wrap around the base as it is.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46061585727794,"sku":"JMM100","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenJuly_55.jpg?v=1691143403"},{"product_id":"jute-mulch-roll","title":"Jute Mulch Mat Weed Control Roll","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat is mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMulch is defined as any material that is placed on the surface of cultivated soil, be that over beds, fields or over compost in individual pots. It could be something like this jute mulch roll, cardboard, straw, hay or bark chippings. It’s a technique that’s been around for millennia, but it seems to have fallen out of favour through modern farming methods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/sheep-trees-grass-and-wool\" title=\"Sheep Trees Grass and Wool blog\" target=\"_blank\"\u003emulch is definitely enjoying a come-back\u003c\/a\u003e due to the increased need for sustainable agriculture and with gardening methods like ‘\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.charlesdowding.co.uk\" title=\"No dig gardening, Charles Dowding website\"\u003eno-dig\u003c\/a\u003e’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/scotts.com\/en-us\/lawn-care-101\/the-benefits-of-mulching-how-to-pick-the-right-type-of-mulch-material.html\" title=\"The benefits of mulching, Scotts.com website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebenefits of mulch are widespread\u003c\/a\u003e, both for domestic gardeners and widescale horticulturalists, farmers and foresters. We have certainly noticed the benefits of mulch our gardens and in our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/buy-land-plant-trees\" title=\"Buy Land Plant Trees page\"\u003eBuy Land Plant Trees\u003c\/a\u003e project.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are a few of the benefits of mulch:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConserves water\u003c\/strong\u003e – mulch conserves water by reducing water evaporation from the soil. Mulch allows water to permeate through it into the soil below. However, the barrier the mulch forms between soil and the air reduces the amount of water that evaporates off the soil’s surface. Studies of mulch in draught-prone countries have demonstrated how the water-saving properties of mulch improve crop growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNaturally suppresses weeds\u003c\/strong\u003e – using mulch to cover soil and compost where plants or crops are growing creates a natural barrier against weeds. The weeds don’t have access to light, can’t photosynthesise, and therefore perish and eventually rot away into the ground.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces competition for water and nutrients\u003c\/strong\u003e – by reducing the number of weeds it ensures that there is less competition for plants. This means they can access more water and nutrients, helping them to grow more effectively! When looking at this in an agricultural context, using mulch reduces the large-scale use of herbicides which is beneficial both to the wider environment and us.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces temperature fluctuations\u003c\/strong\u003e – Mulch protects plant roots against temperature changes by acting as an insulator. They help to regulate soil temperature to keep plant roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter ensuring plants can continue to grow well. Our jute mulch roll is particularly good at this because of its density.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy is Chimney Sheep’s Jute Mulch Roll a great mulch option?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePerfect for larger areas\u003c\/strong\u003e – our Jute Mulch Roll is perfect for mulching big beds and works particularly well in allotments and for hedge planting. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=NhKxC7oZQuo\" title=\"Charles Dowding video, YouTube\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTake a look at how Charles Dowding used a roll to grow some potatoes here.\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMulch for every plant\u003c\/strong\u003e – because each plant will get its own little bit of mulch all to themselves, the concentration of mulch per plant is much higher than having to share lots of mulch (like with straw or bark chippings) with other plants. The density of the roll also helps with this. If you are wanting to mulch individual plants or trees, then our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\" title=\"Gardening collection\"\u003emulch mats\u003c\/a\u003e would work better!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProvides nutrients for the plants as they compost down\u003c\/strong\u003e – jute is a natural vegetable fibre so once it has composted down, it provides lots of nutrients to help plant growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHelping to deter greedy slugs and snails\u003c\/strong\u003e – while we can never promise that our mulch roll will completely deter slugs and snails, it does make it a lot harder for the greedy molluscs to gain access and devour precious plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNo plastic\u003c\/strong\u003e – unlike the polypropylene versions, these our Jute Mulch Roll is completely plastic-free which means it will biodegrade and compost down completely, without leaving microplastics in the soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can I use the Jute Mulch Roll for hedging?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust roll it out along the length of where the hedge is to go, then cut holes through the fabric to plant the whips through. Simple as that! A roll will sit quite firmly on the ground but if you want to peg them down you can use our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/bamboo-skewers-pack-of-40\" title=\"Bamboo Skewers\"\u003ebamboo pegs\u003c\/a\u003e which will also compost down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConventional hedging necessitates the use of herbicides to remove all weeds, then planting of the whips, usually with guards and stakes, then returning for re-treatment of herbicides to manage weed control. Using the jute weed control for hedging reduces this work and use of chemicals. The jute efficiently suppresses the weeds. The weed control fabric can be cut with a pair of sharp scissors or knife, puncturing holes in it through which the whips can be planted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce you’ve planted the hedging using the jute, you can just leave it! The jute will suppress weeds and remove the need to return and spray or strim. The jute lasts at least a year by which time the whips will be well established. It gradually biodegrades down to provide additional nutrients for the young trees. It also retains moisture thus reducing the need to water in dry conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"1 Linear Metre (1m x 1m)","offer_id":46062247313714,"sku":"MM017-01","price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 Linear Metres (1m x 2m)","offer_id":55820438733178,"sku":"MM017-03","price":26.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 Linear Metres (1m x 3m)","offer_id":55820438765946,"sku":"MM017-04","price":39.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4 Linear Metres (1m x 4m)","offer_id":55820438798714,"sku":"MM017-05","price":53.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 Linear Metres (1m x 5m)","offer_id":55820438831482,"sku":"MM017-06","price":66.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"6 Linear Metres (1m x 6m)","offer_id":55820438864250,"sku":"MM017-07","price":79.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"7 Linear Metres (1m x 7m)","offer_id":55820438897018,"sku":"MM017-08","price":92.75,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"8 Linear Metres (1m x 8m)","offer_id":55820438929786,"sku":"MM017-09","price":106.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9 Linear Metres (1m x 9)","offer_id":55820438962554,"sku":"MM017-10","price":119.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 Full Roll (1m x 25m)","offer_id":46062247444786,"sku":"MM017-02","price":220.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/jute_mulch_gardening_roll.jpg?v=1693314384"},{"product_id":"sheep-wool-garden-felt","title":"Sheep Wool Garden Felt","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat exactly can I use your 100% natural sheep wool garden felt for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe list is endless! Customers are always telling us about a new way they have used our sheep wool garden felt but here are a few of our favourite ways:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca title=\"Mulch Mulch Mulch blog\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/mulch-mulch-mulch\"\u003e Mulching\u003c\/a\u003e areas of a garden or allotment for a ‘no-dig’ method of gardening\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreating new beds without digging out turf by using the felt to cover areas of grass or weeds and topping it with compost\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsing it when planting out a vegetable patch to protect against weeds, slugs and snail infestations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeeping delicate plants protected and warm in the winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTied around roots balls of trees to protect them when transplanted\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCapillary matting in plant pots\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs a base layer for propagating seeds indoors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eUsing the sheep wool garden felt for mulching in ‘no dig’ gardening\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCover your required area with the 100% natural sheep wool gardening felt and, well, that’s it. The wool and jute combination will inhibit weed growth and will also retain water due to its hygroscopic qualities. The felt lasts about a year, over which time it will slowly compost down and release valuable nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium and phosphate into the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant to know more about the ‘no dig’ method of gardening? \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=NhKxC7oZQuo\" title=\"Charles Dowding demonstrates how to use garden felt from Chimney Sheep for no-dig gardening\"\u003eHave a look at how Charles Dowding uses our felt and jute. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eUsing the felt for developing new beds without digging\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is hard work digging out turfs to create a new bed. With the no-dig method, you don't need to!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo create a new bed, simply lay our garden felt onto the area of grass\/weeds and put a good thick layer of compost over the felt - then start planting. It really is as easy as that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe roots of the plants you sow will push through the felt, down into the soil. The wool and jute combination will smother the grass and weeds sufficiently enough so that they die back and rot away long before the wool felt composts down and releases its wonderful nutrients into the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eUsing the sheep wool garden felt to protect vegetable patches against weeds, slugs and snail infestations\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll you have to do is lay the felt over the area you want protected and cut holes in the felt to pop the plants through. Bob’s your Uncle!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLots of our customers are commercial gardeners and horticulturalists who want to cultivate produce without using chemical weed control and our gardening felt does just that by smothering them. The texture of the wool is hated by slugs and snails so is great for keeping them at bay too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eUsing the felt to keep delicate plants warm and protected in the winter\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe garden felt can be used as a duvet (for plants, not people). You can wrap the felt round your pots to make a cosy home for the plants, layer it over the roots for a bit of extra warmth or go crazy and layer it over entire plants to keep them snug and warm during the winter!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eUsing the sheep wool garden felt to protect root balls when transplanting trees\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrees are delicate things, gentle giants really, and rely on the eco-system of fungi that develop around its root system. If they are transplanted without this support network it is difficult for them to extract all the nutrients they need, and can perish which is not what we want!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur 100% natural sheep wool garden felt can help with this. Place the tree or plant to be transplanted onto the biodegradable felt and cut a generous square that will comfortably wrap the entire root ball. Use jute or similar biodegradable twine to bind it all together, and plant the lot ensuring that the tree isn't planted deeper than the level of soil that it has started with. The felt will retain the soil it’s grown up in and won’t ‘shock’ it. The wool and jute will retain water to nourish the tree in its early days, and slowly biodegrade releasing valuable nutrients into the soil which will allow the roots to penetrate deeper into the surrounding soil as it grows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eUsing the felt as capillary matting\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCapillary matting is an excellent way of using water efficiently in the garden or greenhouse. Have you noticed that sometimes when you water your pots, the water gushes straight through? This is often worst with drier plants, exacerbating the problem since the water escapes rather than soaking into the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you stand your pots on the natural felt, the matting absorbs the water that leaks out and with it being hygroscopic it will hold onto the water. The small holes in the base of the pot enable the moisture to slowly be reabsorbed back into the compost in the pot, ensuring that your plants get a steady supply of moisture rather than soaking-and-drying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eUsing the sheep wool garden felt to propagate seeds\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDid you ever grow cress on paper towels? If you haven’t you should give it a go, it’s fun! Growing seeds on large pieces of felt takes the process up a whole gear and gives your little seeds the perfect start to life!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant your seeds within the sheep wool felt and let them germinate and grow a little bit. Once they've grown a little bit, pull off the pieces of wool where the seed has grown and plant it outside! Or just plant the whole piece into a bed for instant cover.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"1 Linear Metre (1.8m x 1m)","offer_id":46063469363506,"sku":"SWG001-01","price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 Linear Metres (1.8m x 2m)","offer_id":55814933479802,"sku":"SWG002-01","price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 Linear Metres (1.8m x 3m)","offer_id":55814933512570,"sku":"SWG003-01","price":33.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4 Linear Metres (1.8m x 4m)","offer_id":55814933545338,"sku":"SWG004-01","price":44.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 Linear Metres (1.8m x 5m)","offer_id":55814933578106,"sku":"SWG005-01","price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"6 Linear Metres (1.8m x 6m)","offer_id":55814933610874,"sku":"SWG006-01","price":66.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"7 Linear Metres (1.8m x 7m)","offer_id":55814933643642,"sku":"SWG007-01","price":77.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"8 Linear Metres (1.8m x 8m)","offer_id":55814933676410,"sku":"SWG008-01","price":88.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9 Linear Metres (1.8m x 9m)","offer_id":55814933709178,"sku":"SWG009-01","price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Full Roll (1.8m x 10m)","offer_id":46063469461810,"sku":"SWG001-02","price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/ChimneySheep_Garden_19.jpg?v=1691145454"},{"product_id":"sheep-wool-garden-fleece","title":"Sheep Wool Garden Fleece","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat does garden fleece do?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGarden fleece has been a garden staple for many years! For good reason too as it protects plants from a variety of things, yet still allows enough light penetration. Here are the advantages of using our garden fleece:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProtects plants against frost\u003c\/strong\u003e – when used to cover plants, our garden fleece will create a barrier between your plants and the frost, stopping the frost from killing your plants. This is particularly important for delicate and younger plants. We like to use it throughout the winter for this reason. We all know how unpredictable the British weather is, so we also like to use it in the Spring during our early planting to protect the young plants from any unexpected frosts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProtects against pests\u003c\/strong\u003e – garden fleece is highly effective in protecting against pests by acting as a physical barrier between them and your plants. We particularly like using it on our brassicas to keep cabbage white butterflies from laying eggs on them! \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/agro.icm.edu.pl\/agro\/element\/bwmeta1.element.agro-d0aff1d3-05d9-4a1c-b5af-91dc390dd66b\/c\/1.pdf\" title=\"Application of Sheep Wool report, ACTA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eStudies have shown\u003c\/a\u003e that sheep wool can also deter deer due its 'sheepy' smell, so if you have a problem with deer then it's definitely worth using our garden fleece to drape over plants or trees to protect them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKeeps plants warm\u003c\/strong\u003e – our garden fleece will also help to raise the temperature of plants when the sun shines all year round. This can be by about 2°C compared to uncovered plants in the sun and can advance maturity by about two weeks. With wool being naturally breathable, our garden felt will ensure that it doesn’t get too humid or hot for your plants. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do I use it in my garden?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFor wrapping potted plants, bushes and trees\u003c\/strong\u003e – when using the garden fleece to wrap up plants and trees, you need to make sure you get a piece that will cover the whole plant or tree so we suggest getting a piece slightly bigger than the area you need to cover. Then, all you need to do is use some garden twine or string to tie it up around the base or trunk of the plant. If the plant is quite tall it is also worth tying it in the middle too to ensure it is secure. When covering a potted plant, you can tuck the fleece underneath the pot which should act as an extra anchor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is your Sheep Wool Garden Fleece better versus traditional garden fleece? \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost traditional garden fleece products are made using polypropylene which isn’t a  sustainable material and isn't easily recyclable. Our garden fleece is made of 100% wool (ACTUAL fleece rather than synthetic fleece) which is sustainable (as sheep always need to be sheared!) and compostable. If you are using it across a plant bed, you can leave it to biodegrade down which will provide added nutrients to your soil. If you've used it and it is starting to look past its best, it can go on the compost heap or you can use it at the bottom of plant pots for roots to grow into and to retain water in the pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWool also has lots of naturally occurring properties like being breathable and insulating which makes it perfect to use as garden fleece! We use wool in a few of our gardening products due to its brilliant properties. Why not have a look at them \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\" title=\"Gardening collection\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e?\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"1 Linear Metre (1.5m x 1m)","offer_id":46064285417778,"sku":"GP004-01","price":4.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 Linear Metres (1.5m x 2m)","offer_id":55818849091962,"sku":"GP004-06","price":9.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 Linear Metres (1.5m x 3m)","offer_id":55818849124730,"sku":"GP004-07","price":14.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4 Linear Metres (1.5m x 4m)","offer_id":55818849157498,"sku":"RF-JGVT-M6XK","price":19.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 Linear Metres (1.5m x 5m)","offer_id":55818849190266,"sku":"GP004-08","price":24.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"6 Linear Metres (1.5m x 6m)","offer_id":55818849223034,"sku":"GP004-09","price":28.8,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"7 Linear Metres (1.5m x 7m)","offer_id":55818849255802,"sku":"GP004-10","price":33.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"8 Linear Metres (1.5m x 8m)","offer_id":55818849288570,"sku":"GP004-11","price":38.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"9 Linear Metres (1.5m x 9m)","offer_id":55818849321338,"sku":"GP004-12","price":43.2,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 Linear Metres (1.5m x 10m)","offer_id":55818849354106,"sku":"GP004-13","price":48.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenJuly_61.jpg?v=1691146415"},{"product_id":"wool-mulch-shillies","title":"Wool Felt Mulch Shillies","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat are these felt garden mulch shillies made from?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese felt garden mulch shillies are made from 100% sheep’s wool which is totally biodegradable. Herdwick sheep’s wool to be precise! You can read more about how we source our wool \u003ca title=\"Operation Wool page\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/operation-wool\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur chimney draught excluders are made to fit flues of all shapes and sizes, meaning that we’re quite often left with lots of scrap Herdwick felt. We hate waste at \u003ca title=\"Chimney Sheep\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/chimney-sheep\"\u003eChimney Sheep\u003c\/a\u003e, so we cut the scraps into even smaller pieces and the result is a garden mulch that works brilliantly and bears a pleasing resemblance to the traditional slate shillies!  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"The benefits of mulching, Scotts website\" href=\"https:\/\/scotts.com\/en-us\/lawn-care-101\/the-benefits-of-mulching-how-to-pick-the-right-type-of-mulch-material.html\"\u003ebenefits of mulch are widespread\u003c\/a\u003e, both for domestic gardeners and widescale horticulturalists, farmers and foresters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are a few of the benefits of mulch:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConserves water\u003c\/strong\u003e – mulch conserves water by reducing water evaporation from the soil. Mulch allows water to permeate through it into the soil below. However, the barrier the mulch forms between soil and the air reduces the amount of water that evaporates off the soil’s surface. Studies of mulch in drought-prone countries have demonstrated how the water-saving properties of mulch improve crop growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNaturally suppresses weeds \u003c\/strong\u003e– using mulch to cover soil and compost where plants or crops are growing creates a natural barrier against weeds. The weeds don’t have access to light, can’t photosynthesise, and therefore perish and eventually rot away into the ground.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces competition for water and nutrients\u003c\/strong\u003e – by reducing the number of weeds mulch ensures that there is less competition for plants. This means they can access more water and nutrients, helping them to grow more effectively! When looking at this in an agricultural context, using mulch reduces the large-scale use of herbicides which is beneficial both to the wider environment and us.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces temperature fluctuations\u003c\/strong\u003e – Mulch protects plant roots against temperature changes by acting as an insulator. They help to regulate soil temperature to keep plant roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter ensuring plants can continue to grow well.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy do these felt garden mulch shillies make such great mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGardening mulch is commonly used to enrich the soil around plants, by acting as a protective shield. Mulch can be made of cardboard, straw, bark chippings or it could be something like our \u003ca title=\"Gardening collection\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\"\u003ejute mulch mats\u003c\/a\u003e. Wool, however, is also a great mulch with so many naturally occurring properties that help to protect plants and ensure they stay strong and healthy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur shillies make a great mulch because they are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNaturally hygroscopic\u003c\/strong\u003e - Herdwick wool is naturally hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture and releases it slowly. Choosing a garden mulch with excellent moisture-retaining properties, therefore, reduces the need for you to water your plants as much in the summer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSnail \u0026amp; slug deterrent\u003c\/strong\u003e - the prickly surface of the wool does act as a natural slug repellent. They HATE the texture of the wool which means the greedy mollusks stay away. You can read more about how to use them to deter slug and snails below.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInsulating\u003c\/strong\u003e - Just as the \u003ca title=\"Chimney Sheep\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/chimney-sheep\"\u003eChimney Sheep\u003c\/a\u003e acts as an incredibly nifty draught-proofing solution for your home, the highly durable and insulating properties of Herdwick wool, can also help to barricade soil and balance extreme temperatures. This is particularly important for young, more delicate plants that need a bit of extra TLC when it's cold.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNaturally nutrient-dense\u003c\/strong\u003e – wool is naturally full of nitrogen, potassium and phosphate which helps with strong, healthy plant growth. As the wool biodegrades and composts down, these nutrients are released into the soil to benefit your plants!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do I use these wool shillies?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe great thing about these shillies is that they can be used in pots for individual plants or across beds to protect a whole area. You will need approximately 1kg of felt shillies per 1 square metre of soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo use them on potted plants, just pile up the shillies around the base of the plant and across the diameter of the pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor use on beds, spread them out across the whole area. If there are particular plants in the bed that need an extra bit of protection (delicate plants or ones that are vulnerable to slugs), ensure you give pile the wool shillies around the base of the plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you find that your shillies tend to blow away in the wind, you can water them in which will help to make them slightly weightier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur felt shillies are now packaged using recycled coffee sacks which can also be used in your garden. They could also be used as mulch, a bit like our \u003ca title=\"Jute Mulch Roll\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/jute-mulch-roll\"\u003ejute mulch roll\u003c\/a\u003e as they are completely biodegradable or to collect leaves in the autumn to create a rich leaf mulch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDoes wool garden mulch help to deter slugs and snails?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the prickly surface of the wool does act as a natural slug repellent. However, to increase the felt shillies snail and slug repelling properties, we recommend that you also try this simple recipe for slug repelling garlic water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFirstly, crush and then boil two bulbs of garlic to a pulp, in two pints of water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSieve the mixture and then top it back up to two pints, using cold water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeave the mixture to cool and store in a container (e.g plastic milk container).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhen ready to use, dilute two tablespoons of the mixture per gallon of water and then pour it over your felt shillies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"1kg (Covers 1 Square Metre)","offer_id":46065031348530,"sku":"WF-1J6S-E2GQ","price":6.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3kg (Covers 3 Square Metres)","offer_id":46065031381298,"sku":"CA028-01","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/FeltShilliesLoose1500.jpg?v=1691147731"},{"product_id":"3-5l-sheep-wool-pellets","title":"Sheep Wool Pellets 3.5L","description":"\u003cp\u003eThese sheep wool pellets are a combination of wool and muck, pressed into pellet form.  Sheep wool pellets have traditionally been used by organic gardeners as slug deterrents. They can put them off a bit but a \u003ca title=\"Gastropod barriers article, RHS website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rhs.org.uk\/science\/plant-health-in-gardens\/entomology\/rhs-projects-on-plant-pests\/gastropod-barriers-experiment\" target=\"_blank\"\u003estudy by the RHS\u003c\/a\u003e found that wool pellets weren't all that successful. We find that the best and most brilliant use of these pellets is instead of water absorbent crystals. The commercial ones are made of polyacrylamide - read a bit more about it \u003ca title=\"The difference between potting soil and potting mix, The Spruce website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thespruce.com\/difference-between-potting-soil-potting-mix-847812\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e if you're interested. I found one article that said they were benign and one that said they were carcinogenic. Anyway, these sheep wool pellets are completely natural, in fact use a waste product, and will absorb water, slowly releasing it back into the basket as the surrounding soil dries out. The wool pellets can hold 1.5 times their weight in water. They slowly biodegrade, releasing valuable nutrients into the soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can also use them as a dense, nutrient rich mulch. Our \u003ca title=\"Mulch Shillies\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/mulch-shillies\"\u003efelt shillies\u003c\/a\u003e will go further but these will provide more nutrients and mulch combined if you really want to spoil your plants!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust to be clear about how much is in a pack: the volume is 3.5 litres, and the weight is 2.0kg. They are weirdly dense for sheep wool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the nutrients in the organic sheep wool pellets?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe contents are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrganic NK fertilizer 11-5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003etotal nitrogen: 11% N\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epotassium oxide: 5% K20\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003etotal sulphur: 2% S\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eorganic substance: 85%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs this is a natural product, the values given may vary slightly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat can organic sheep wool pellets be used for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e100% untreated organic sheep's wool pellets provide long lasting mulch and soil improver. The pellets contain valuable nutrients that are slowly released to plants. They can absorb and store 1.5 times their own weight in water. This makes them perfect for hanging baskets, planters and window boxes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe pellets can also be used as mulch to prevent weed competition, increase water retention in the soil, and protect delicate roots from temperature fluctuations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally, the pellets have been shown to have some slug and snail repelling properties as they don’t like sliding over the prickly surface of the wool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow good are sheep wool pellets at deterring slugs and snails?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou'll notice that we don't try to claim amazing slug deterring properties for our sheep wool pellets! Anecdotal evidence indicates that if there's a hosta with a border of pellets, and a hosta that's completely unprotected, the slugs will take the easy route. The coarse fibres in the wool are uncomfortable for them to slither over. But, think like a hungry slug. If there's nothing else to eat but a lush and delicious hosta, and there's a boundary that's a bit uncomfortable to climb over, if you're hungry enough you'll endure the discomfort and go for the hostas. I guess you worry about the return trip later when you're nice and full.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can you stop slugs and snails from devouring your garden plants?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey are beasts. But, we've had some success with the Holeless Hosta recipe from RHS at \u003ca title=\"Holehird Gardens website\" href=\"https:\/\/holehirdgardens.org.uk\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHolehird\u003c\/a\u003e. Make a decoction out of garlic and sprinkle this over the \u003ca title=\"Mulch Shillies\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/mulch-shillies\"\u003efelt shillies\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Mulch Shillies\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/mulch-shillies\"\u003e,\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eseems to work best.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are various other options but my tried and tested is to go out with a torch at night and collect up bagfuls (up to you what you do with the bags of slugs) (but remember they are homing slugs if you're relocating them). Also, find plants they don't eat. And encourage the slug and snail eating wildlife in your garden, like hedgehogs and thrushes. Just please please whatever you do don't put poisonous slug pellets down. I won't post the video of the dying hedgehog writhing in agony after eating poisoned slugs, but trust me, it's traumatic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow to encourage hedgehogs in the garden\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHedgehogs need all the help they can get, as they are becoming more scarce in the UK. They like wild untidy parts of the garden so keep some unkept sections if you can. They need somewhere to hibernate, and such a lot of cover dies back in the winter so it's a good idea to put out a \u003ca title=\"Hedgehog House\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/johnston-jeff-hedgehog-house\"\u003ehedgehog house\u003c\/a\u003e for them. We put out a pile of straw in the autumn and it's fun to watch it disappear in a messy trail into the hedgehog house as Mrs Hog makes her hibernation nest perfect. They have a large range and will need the size of more than one garden to meet their ecological requirements. If your garden is fenced then you can create a little hedgehog sized gap so they can get through to your neighbours and increase the area they have access to.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46065838981426,"sku":"MM016","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/SheepPellets2.jpg?v=1757424590"},{"product_id":"herdwick-sheep-wool-1kg","title":"Herdwick Sheep Wool","description":"\u003cp\u003eNatural Herdwick sheep wool is an incredible material. It's a natural biodegradable substance with a multitude of uses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSo what makes Herdwick sheep wool so good?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSheep wool has some amazing properties - unlike what you can find in synthetic materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirstly it is incredibly hygroscopic - meaning it can absorb significant amounts of water without becoming significantly wet or heavy - this makes it a fantastic gardening material as raw wool is able to hold a large quantity of water compared to its raw weight - placing a little on top of plants can ensure they have sufficient water to grow well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is also rich in nitrates and other nutrients - when wool biodegrades down it releases lots of minerals including nitrates - these are essential to encourage plant growth!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's 100% natural and biodegradable - unlike many synthetic products you can be rest assured if you use this in your garden or home it contains no plastics, chemicals or other nasties - also when you're done with it you can be sure it will simply degrade away, and not end up in our oceans or land fills!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWool is a great insulator, draught stopper and sound proofer - wool is a fantastic absorber, it absorbs the energy from sound waves helping to dampen sound. It physically blocks draughts - we use wool every day to produce our very effective \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/chimney-sheep\" title=\"Chimney Sheep\"\u003eChimney Sheep\u003c\/a\u003e! It also traps air in between its fibres helping to keep warmth in homes, and preventing heat escape via conduction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWool absorbs chemicals - by using wool in your home you are helping to reduce the number of chemical nasties present in your day to day life - wool has been shown to be a very efficient absorber of chemical gases such as formaldehyde and others which may be present in glues, plastic and electrical equipment around your home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWool is a fantastic carbon store\u003c\/strong\u003e, the processes used to grow and produce wool mean that wool is loaded with carbon dioxide that would otherwise be in the atmosphere - in fact carbon makes up to 50% of the weight of wool!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow much Herdwick Sheep Wool do you get in the pack?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWool isn't very heavy so a kilo is quite a lot. We squash it into a box that's 27cm x 41cm x 28cm. That's about 0.03 of a cubic metre. We do more than just the one kilo now, with our largest 7kg box measuring 77cm x 50cm x 50cm - the rest are somewhere in between, but since we try and reuse boxes where we can, we can't be sure what size box they will come in. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat can Herdwick Sheep Wool be used for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWool is amazingly versatile stuff. It's a brilliant replacement for moss in hanging baskets. Moss is taken from forests and shipped in from places as far afield as Chile. Wool holds moisture and delivers nutrients as it slowly biodegrades. It’s the perfect replacement for moss! And our 1kg box will do a lot of baskets. While you’re in the garden it also works as an excellent biodegradable mulch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you know there are a whole load of products that are made from wool for heat and sound insulation. But the wool on its own can be used for all kinds of things such as poking into gaps around your home or using as sound absorption in various applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI love hearing about all the crafty uses that skilful artists use it for. Spinning, needle felting, wet felting, as a filler for soft toys, cushions and door draught excluders…the wool contains a lovely range of natural colours and textures that can be used in all kinds of imaginative ways. In fact please send us pictures of your projects, we’d love to show them off on Facebook!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnother amazing property of wool is that it absorbs VOC’s from the air. VOC’s are emitted by all kinds of household products from nail varnish remover to cleaning products to varnishes and things that give off that “new” smell. These have serious health implications. The molecules in the VOC’s bind permanently to the wool fibres. The wool effectively cleans the air around your home, in your car or place of work or education. We are sure you can come up with other clever uses of wool!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy this wool?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur wool in particular is sourced directly from farmers in the Lake District, it's completely Herdwick Sheep wool - it has no added chemicals and has simply been washed, so it's nice and clean ready for use! All our wool is sourced from farmers we know - it's local , and hasn't travelled very far - it's even scoured (washed) in nearby Yorkshire - so this wool hasn't even travelled out of North England!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"1kg","offer_id":55218705072506,"sku":"RR-5SD9-K2VY","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2kg","offer_id":55218705105274,"sku":"NHSW001-02","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3kg","offer_id":55218705138042,"sku":"NHSW001-03","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"5kg","offer_id":55218705170810,"sku":"NHSW001-05","price":40.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"7kg","offer_id":55218705203578,"sku":"NHSW001-07","price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Herdwick_Wool_1KG_Seperate_2048.jpg?v=1746777578"},{"product_id":"raw-sheep-wool-10kg","title":"Raw Herdwick Sheep Wool 10kg","description":"\u003cp\u003eRaw wool makes excellent mulch and slow release fertiliser - especially when you need to add plenty of nitrogen to your soil or growing medium. It's a natural pest deterrent - deer, slugs and snails hate it. Plus, because it's a fully natural product it's readily biodegradable and completely compostable, so it'll biodegrade down over the period of approximately a year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of wool's superpowers is that it holds onto moisture really well. During dry spells, wool will help to keep your plants hydrated. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wool was sourced during \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"we source the Herdwick wool directly from farmers in the Lake District\" href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/pages\/operation-wool\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eOperation Wool\u003c\/a\u003e. We pay above market prices and source it directly from the farmers, but we've ended up with a surplus.  It's primarily for going on the garden but some of it might be good for spinning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach bag contains 10 kg of raw sheep wool. Please note - this wool is in its natural state, just off the sheep meaning it isn't moth-proofed or suitable for use in building projects or similar. Some customers buy it for greasy spinning wool but please note that we can't guarantee it will all be good for spinning. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is natural sheep wool good for?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWell, all kinds of things really. In its natural state, just shorn from the sheep, wool is full of all kinds of great things, including\u003ca title=\"Lanolin overview, Science Direct website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/topics\/agricultural-and-biological-sciences\/lanolin#:~:text=Lanolin%20is%20the%20wool%20grease,in%20cosmetic%20and%20pharmaceutical%20formulations.\"\u003e lanolin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e,\u003c\/strong\u003e plant matter and sheep poo! These little extras are just fantastic for mulching applications in the garden. The wool (and little extras) readily composts down nutrients into the soil, it's nitrogen dense meaning it'll give plants with high energy requirements the boost they need to grow big and strong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot only this, because wool is naturally fibrous, and coated in lanolin, it's an amazing pest deterrent. The texture naturally deters slugs, snails and other slimy pests because they simply hate sliding over it - and the natural sheepy state of raw wool deters deer too! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow to use sheep wool in the garden\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt comes in distinct fleeces off each sheep. A typical Herdwick fleece weighs around 1kg so there are up to 10 fleeces in each bag. These may need a little tugging or teasing apart to lay on the soil, but then you can simply lay it on the ground around your plants as densely as you need to. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSheep wool also makes amazing mulch, it readily biodegrades, it's completely compostable and it adds a lot of nutrients to soil when it's left to break down over a period of time. It also helps insulate plant roots against frost, and retain moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want a more refined wool product to work with, then try our popular \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Sheep wool garden felt for sustainable no-dig gardening\" href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/sheep-wool-garden-felt?variant=46063469363506\" target=\"_blank\"\u003esheep wool garden felt\u003c\/a\u003e which has a wide range of applications. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen there's the Dalefoot \u003ca title=\"Dalefoot Peat Free Wool Compost\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/dalefoot-peat-free-wool-compost\"\u003esheep wool compost\u003c\/a\u003e. Made from sheep wool and bracken, is a high quality peat free compost. Full of nutrients and extra high in nitrates sheep wool compost really does give your plants a boost - and makes fantastic use of wonderful wool!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Herdwick","offer_id":56187852128634,"sku":"10kgRW001","price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/10kg_Herdwick_wool_in_a_pile.jpg?v=1746525817"},{"product_id":"olla-irrigation-pot","title":"Olla Terracotta Irrigation Pot - 300ml Watering Spike","description":"\u003ch4\u003eHow do I use an Olla irrigation pot?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnsuring your plants have a sufficient supply of water can be hard going, especially during dry and hot weather spells. Every day, sometimes multiple times a day, you will find yourself topping up your watering can and carefully sprinkling water over individual plants, trying to ensure they've got enough to drink to get them through the day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOlla irrigation pots are THE alternative to laborious, intensive hand watering. They ensure a constant, trickling supply of water reaches your plants' roots as and when they need it. As long as you keep the watering pot topped up, your plant will never get thirsty!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey require very little maintenance and are very simple to use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll you have to do is the following:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the space between your plants, dig a hole large enough for your Olla to sit in, ensure the hole is deep enough so the bulb of the pot is entirely covered, but that the top of the stem is still visible ( this ensures you can easily fill it with water and that you don't accidentally step on it).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefill the hole with soil, so your Olla is nice and tightly buried - apart from the top of course!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsing a jug or hosepipe, fill your water pot until it's nice and full.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace the little terracotta lid on top - this ensures no soil, debris or wildlife accidentally drops inside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVoila! Your irrigation pot is ready to go, and will supply your plants with water as they need it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have particularly shallow rooting plants, it is possible to bury the Olla pot at an angle, making it a little bit more of a feature, as the water won't have to be delivered quite as deeply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the 300ml self-watering spikes, simply pop them into a planter or hanging basket, and push them in as far as you can. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow does the irrigation pot work?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca title=\"All About Terracotta, Weston Mill website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wmpot.co.uk\/all-about-terracotta#:~:text=Terracotta%20is%20an%20earthenware%20clay,for%20garden%20pots%20and%20containers.\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNatural clay\u003c\/a\u003e watering pots are incredible really, there's no fancy technology or cogs and reels. It's just clever design, fantastic natural materials and allowing nature to work how it wants to!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the Ollas are made from unglazed terracotta clay, they're porous, which means water can pass through the material over a period of time, so it doesn't just stay contained inside the pot. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the terracotta watering system is placed into the soil it is surrounded by moisture in the soil. This creates a tension, almost like a suction force between the water in the soil and the water inside the Olla. Water also naturally moves from areas of high concentration (wet areas) to areas of low concentration (dry areas) through the power of osmosis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs plants pull water from the soil, or water is lost from the soil through evaporation, water is naturally released from the irrigation pot - replacing exactly what was lost. If the soil is dry the Olla will naturally release more water, as there's a larger difference in water tension caused by the 'pulling' of the plants roots, as well as the dryness in the soil. But if the soil is wet, the release will be negligible as the water levels between the Olla and the surrounding soil will be very similar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt needs pretty much no attention from you, all you have to do is ensure it's kept topped up with water each week - perhaps a little more often if it's particularly warm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of using an olla watering pot?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's a whole host of benefits to using an irrigation pot, they're an excellent choice not only for you, but your plants and garden too,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe benefits include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime saving and easy maintenance, you don't have to go around watering each individual plant every day, you simply have to occasionally check the water levels of the pot and top it up when needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey ensure a constant trickling supply of water, directly to the plants roots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey promote deep and dense root growth - roots naturally grow towards their water source, by using an Olla you're ensuring your plants are receiving water from deep in the ground, not from surface soil, this encourages the roots to grow vastly and downwards towards the water source. This will help reduce the risk of root damage too.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey're incredibly water efficient, as they're sealed and deliver water deep within the soil, there's no surface evaporation to contend with and they help prevent water run off that comes with surface watering. By using an Olla, you also help prevent your plants roots from going through vicious drying and wetting cycles - the supply of water they get is constant, and the watering pot helps to ensure conditions for your plants roots remain consistent, so they should never become waterlogged or dry out.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs the water is being released deep into the soil, the topsoil naturally remains dry, this can help deter the growth of weeds or competitor plants that would otherwise thrive in damp topsoil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can I ensure my plants are getting the water they need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants can be finicky when it comes to water requirements. Some need a lot more watering than others. That's why Ollas are a great choice when it comes to choosing a watering solution - they give plants exactly what they need when they need it. But, there's a whole host of other options when it comes to water retention in your garden you might want to consider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed to target your water delivery to a specific plant or plant cluster? Why not take a peek at our \u003ca title=\"Fair Zone Watering Spikes\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/fair-zone-self-watering-spikes\"\u003eself-watering spikes\u003c\/a\u003e? These will get a water supply directly to the plants that need it most. Similar to our 300ml versions but with an upturned wine bottle, they can hold more water. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGot your watering plans under control already? Great! Why not make just a few little additions to your maintenance routine to help keep things a little more efficient? Why not add a sprinkle of \u003ca title=\"Sheep Wool Pellets\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/3-5l-sheep-wool-pellets\"\u003eorganic sheep wool pellets\u003c\/a\u003e to your pots or top your plants off with a \u003ca title=\"Gardening collection\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\"\u003ejute mulch mat\u003c\/a\u003e? Both of these items are excellent at helping retain water and prevent soil water evaporation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do you pronounce \"olla\"??\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"correct\" pronunciation is Oh-yah.  Silent LLs, like Paella. However, these are no rule ollas, and you can pronounce them however you like. Here in West Cumbria, we're pronouncing them ollah.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48860496331058,"sku":"OLA0-3L","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Small_Olla_On_Side_2048.jpg?v=1718020389"},{"product_id":"fair-zone-self-watering-spikes","title":"Fair Zone Self-Watering Spikes","description":"\u003ch4\u003eHow do the Self-Watering Spikes work?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey’re SUPER easy to use, just follow these four* simple steps:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoak the spike in water for 1-2 hours before you use it as this will open up the pores in the clay. This will prevent the spike from soaking up water too fast when you insert it into the soil later on.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFind a long-necked bottle (such as an empty wine bottle) and fill it up with water. You can add nutrients as long as they are water-soluble (they must be water-soluble to allow them to pass through the clay spike).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace the watering spike on the neck of the now full bottle and flip it upside down so the spike is on the bottom and the bottle is pointing towards the ground.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinally, place the spike and water bottle into the soil and bury it until about 2 inches of the spike is visible above the soil. Be careful when pushing it in as you don’t want to break the spike – you might find it easier to dig out some of the soil first to start you off.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*Step...5? Okay, so, you could argue there are 5 steps. But this one is easy (and kind of obvious?!) – just make sure to refill your water bottle when it needs it if you don’t plan on going back to watering the plants yourself! \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well as soaking the spike in water before you use it, we would also recommend you water your plant beforehand too, so the soil is already moist to start with - this just stops water from leaving the spike straight away meaning it will last longer before you need to refill your bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe spikes can be used both indoors and outdoors, with varying results. Because there are so many variables when it comes to how fast\/slow you need to refill, it’s best to keep an eye on your plants the first time you use them. You’ll want to know just how much water your plants are drinking so you know they won’t go thirsty when you’re not around.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eTell me more about the Self-Watering Spikes \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Self-Watering Spikes are made from the red clay of Sri Lanka. Pottery is a long-standing tradition there and plays a major role in everyday life; being used for cooking pots and in the construction of houses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClay is a naturally permeable material, allowing water to slowly pass through. The moisture tension between the clay and soil determines how much water is pulled from the spike. The drier the soil, the more water is pulled through, and the opposite applies to wetter soil. An average size wine bottle (750ml) full of water can last around 7-10 days, depending on the type of plant, the humidity, and how wet or dry the soil is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe smaller spikes are better suited to a smaller long-necked bottle. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhen would I use them? \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Self-Watering Spikes are perfect for when you’re going away on a small trip and won’t be around to water your plants for a week or so, or maybe you want to take the guesswork out of watering them? All you would need to do would be to check your water bottle and if it’s empty, refill it!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you might already know, here at Chimney Sheep we LOVE anything that’s good for the environment. These terracotta watering spikes not only get the job done, but they fit the bill of being eco-friendly and are perfect for plastic-free gardening. Not only are they made from natural clay, but they give a reason to use empty wine bottles (or any other long-neck bottles) instead of just throwing them into the recycling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat is plastic-free gardening?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlastic-free gardening is exactly what it sounds like – gardening with no plastic! More and more people are turning to biodegradable and environmentally friendly products instead of the common, plastic alternatives, and together, we should be encouraging others to do the same. Of course, it’s not easy to just start using no plastic, especially considering gardeners are surrounded by plastic, whether it be seed trays, plant pots, compost bags or other GYO (Grow Your Own) accessories. Even just cutting down on the amount of new plastic you use by reusing the plastic you already have and buying plastic-free where you can would be a great start towards removing all the plastic from your garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlternatives to plastic are slowly becoming more and more readily available, whether that’s plant pots, seed trays, or the plants themselves (most of the time you can just pop into your local garden centre and buy plants or seeds in some sort of plastic container, but if you take a bit of time to shop around in the right season, you might just be able to get them plastic-free!).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Fair Zone","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":55350783181178,"sku":"SWS001","price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large","offer_id":55350783213946,"sku":"SWS002","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/FairZone-Self-Watering-Spikes.jpg?v=1691159198"},{"product_id":"5-round-capillary-mats","title":"13cm Pure Wool Capillary Mats for Plant Pots - Pack of 10","description":"\u003ch4\u003eHow to use your eco-friendly capillary matting \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimply pop one of these round capillary mats between the base of your plant pots and the pot stand or saucer, then water your plants from the bottom to create a nourishing moisture reserve for plant roots to tap into as they need. Those finicky houseplants really should complain a little less! Alternatively, use as a wool plant pot liner at the bottom of your plant pot before adding soil to prevent soil from falling through the drainage hole. Our rounds of capillary matting can also be snipped to size where needed, making them versatile for all your indoor and outdoor plant parenting needs. Have other ideas? We’ve found they make comfortable bird nest liners too!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy choose wool capillary matting?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe natural wool fibres can absorb up to 30% of their own weight in water before gradually releasing it back to the soil. Capillary matting made from wool is far more sustainable and better for the environment than plastic options out there. It’s a great way to retain moisture and offer potted plants a constant, even supply of water directly to the roots, keeping your plants hydrated for longer between waterings. Bottom watering like this acts as a self-watering system that also promotes better root growth and development in the pot. It also creates a good humid environment for your plants to thrive. The breathable material boasts antibacterial properties, allowing for healthy air circulation and prevention of root rot and waterlogging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBenefits of wool plant pot liners\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen used as plant pot liners, they insulate delicate roots from temperature fluctuations in the environment, especially useful for plants outdoors that are susceptible to the cold snaps British weather likes to throw at us. What’s more, the natural fibres slowly release essential nutrients such as nitrogen, sulphur and magnesium into the soil for growing plants to uptake. So your plants not only benefit from improved moisture retention and soil aeration but also a natural fertiliser as well! As an added bonus, you can use these round capillary mats inside the pots as well to prevent potting mix falling through drainage holes, making repotting far less messy! No more soil scattered across the kitchen floor or garden patio. The tight weave of the wool mats could also block pesky slugs and creepy crawlies from slithering in through the bottom of pots. Genius! If you like the sound of these benefits of wool for growing and planting, take a look at our natural gardening products for sheep wool garden felt, mulch shillies, or raw Herdwick sheep wool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat makes natural wool capillary mats better for the environment? \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCapillary matting made from pure sheep wool is 100% natural, compostable and biodegradable. Oh, and totally plastic free! Wool is a naturally renewable material, making these natural capillary mats an effective and sustainable option for avid gardeners and passionate plant parents out there. This wool capillary matting doesn’t contribute to plastic pollution or clog up landfills. In fact, wool naturally decomposes in months in comparison to centuries for plastic to break down. Producing 1 tonne of plastic generates 2.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide along with other toxic petrochemicals which are released into the air and water. What’s worse is that 12 million tonnes of plastic ends up in our oceans every year. So by making a small switch to more sustainable, plastic-free products like these wool capillary mats, you help fight our planet’s plastic problem.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49160333361458,"sku":"CAPM001-01","price":10.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/CapillaryMatMultiple2048.jpg?v=1744709813"},{"product_id":"jute-weed-protection-mulch-mats-6-15cm-pack-of-20","title":"Jute Weed Protection Mulch Mats 6\"\/15cm Pack of 30","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat is mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMulch is defined as any material that is placed on the surface of cultivated soil, be that over beds, fields or over compost in individual pots. It could be something like our jute mulch mats, cardboard, straw, hay or bark chippings. It’s a technique that’s been around for millennia, but it seems to have fallen out of favour through modern farming methods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, \u003ca title=\"Natural garden mulch products blog\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/blogs\/blog\/natural-garden-mulch-products\"\u003emulch is definitely enjoying a come-back\u003c\/a\u003e due to the increased need for sustainable agriculture and with methods of gardening like the ‘\u003ca title=\"No dig gardening, Charles Dowding website\" href=\"https:\/\/www.charlesdowding.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eno-dig\u003c\/a\u003e’ method.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of mulch?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"The benefits of mulch, scotts.com website\" href=\"https:\/\/scotts.com\/en-us\/lawn-care-101\/the-benefits-of-mulching-how-to-pick-the-right-type-of-mulch-material.html\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebenefits of mulch are widespread\u003c\/a\u003e, both for domestic gardeners and widescale horticulturalists, farmers and foresters. We have certainly noticed the benefits of mulch our gardens and in our \u003ca title=\"Buy Land Plant Trees page\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/buy-land-plant-trees\"\u003eBuy Land Plant Trees\u003c\/a\u003e project.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are a few of the benefits of mulch:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConserves water\u003c\/strong\u003e – mulch conserves water by reducing water evaporation from the soil. Mulch (in most cases, but particularly in the case of our Mulch Mats) allows water to permeate through it into the soil below. However, the barrier the mulch forms between soil and the air reduces the amount of water that evaporates off the soil’s surface. Studies of mulch in draught-prone countries have demonstrated how the water-saving properties of mulch improve crop growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNaturally suppresses weeds\u003c\/strong\u003e – using mulch to cover soil and compost where plants or crops are growing creates a natural barrier against weeds. The weeds don’t have access to light, can’t photosynthesise, and therefore perish and eventually rot away into the ground.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces competition for water and nutrients\u003c\/strong\u003e – by reducing the number of weeds it ensures that there is less competition for plants. This means they can access more water and nutrients, helping them to grow more effectively! When looking at this in an agricultural context, using mulch reduces the large-scale use of herbicides which is beneficial both to the wider environment and us.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReduces temperature fluctuations\u003c\/strong\u003e – Mulch protects plant roots against temperature changes by acting as an insulator. They help to regulate soil temperature to keep plant roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter ensuring plants can continue to grow well. Our Mulch Mats are particularly good at this because of their density.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy are Chimney Sheep’s Jute Mulch Mats a great mulch option?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNo faffing required\u003c\/strong\u003e – we love our Mulch Mats because they are quick and easy to use. There is no shovelling, cutting to size or pinning down required. Just slot them around the base of the plant you want to protect and hey presto! They sit firmly on the ground and what we find is that weeds and grass they suppress, sort of grow into the fabric of the jute. They don’t manage to get through but they help to anchor the mulch mat to the soil, so it sits nice and firmly in place.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSuper versatile\u003c\/strong\u003e – our Mulch Mats can be used in gardens, allotments, greenhouses, on house plants – the list is endless! The great thing about them is that you can use them in individual standard plant pots or for putting round individual plants in larger beds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMulch for every plant\u003c\/strong\u003e – because each plant will get its own little bit of mulch all to themselves, the concentration of mulch per plant is much higher than having to share lots of mulch (like with straw or bark chippings) with other plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProvides nutrients for the plants as they compost down\u003c\/strong\u003e – jute is a natural vegetable fibre so once it has composted down, it provides lots of nutrients to help plant growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHelping to deter greedy slugs and snails\u003c\/strong\u003e - while we can never promise that our Mulch Mats will completely deter slugs and snails, they do make it a lot harder for the greedy molluscs to gain access and devour precious plants. We’ve had a lot of success from pre-soaking the mats in the Hole-less Hosta garlic decoction, which seems to have been very effective at persuading the slugs and snails to go and consume something else. Mwah ha ha ha. It’s not kind but nor are they!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade from recycled coffee sacks\u003c\/strong\u003e – jute is such a fantastic fibre which works perfectly for mulch. We don’t like seeing great materials go to waste, so we use recycled jute coffee sacks to make our Mulch Mats.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNo plastic\u003c\/strong\u003e – unlike the polypropylene versions, these Mulch Mats are completely plastic-free which means they will biodegrade and compost down completely, without leaving microplastics in the soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have lots of other sizes of \u003ca title=\"Growing and Planting collection\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/growing-planting\"\u003eMulch Mats\u003c\/a\u003e so why not take a look here to find the perfect size for your garden project! We also make \u003ca title=\"Tree spats pack of 10\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\/products\/jute-tree-spats-pack-of-10\"\u003eJute Tree Spats\u003c\/a\u003e which are perfect for when you are planting baby trees. Need lots of our Mulch Mats or Tree Spats? \u003ca title=\"Contact us\" href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/pages\/contact\"\u003eGet in touch\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49345869545778,"sku":"JMM003-03","price":12.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenJuly_04.jpg?v=1742904981"},{"product_id":"olla-terracotta-irrigation-pot-bulb-shape","title":"Olla Terracotta Irrigation Pot - Curvy Shape","description":"\u003ch4\u003eHow do I use an Olla irrigation pot?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnsuring your plants have a sufficient supply of water can be hard going, especially during dry and hot weather spells. Every day, sometimes multiple times a day, you will find yourself topping up your watering can and carefully sprinkling water over individual plants, trying to ensure they've got enough to drink to get them through the day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOlla irrigation pots are THE alternative to laborious, intensive hand watering. They ensure a constant, trickling supply of water reaches your plants' roots as and when they need it. As long as you keep the watering pot topped up, your plant will never get thirsty!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey require very little maintenance and are very simple to use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll you have to do is the following:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the space between your plants, dig a hole large enough for your Olla to sit in, ensure the hole is deep enough so the bulb of the pot is entirely covered, but that the top of the stem is still visible ( this ensures you can easily fill it with water and that you don't accidentally step on it).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefill the hole with soil, so your Olla is nice and tightly buried - apart from the top of course!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsing a jug or hosepipe, fill your water pot until it's nice and full.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace the little terracotta lid on top - this ensures no soil, debris or wildlife accidentally drops inside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVoila! Your irrigation pot is ready to go, and will supply your plants with water as they need it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have particularly shallow rooting plants, it is possible to bury the Olla pot at an angle, making it a little bit more of a feature, as the water won't have to be delivered quite as deeply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the 300ml self-watering spikes, simply pop them into a planter or hanging basket, and push them in as far as you can. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow does the irrigation pot work?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.wmpot.co.uk\/all-about-terracotta#:~:text=Terracotta%20is%20an%20earthenware%20clay,for%20garden%20pots%20and%20containers.\" title=\"All About Terracotta, Weston Mill website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNatural clay\u003c\/a\u003e watering pots are incredible really, there's no fancy technology or cogs and reels. It's just clever design, fantastic natural materials and allowing nature to work how it wants to!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the Ollas are made from unglazed terracotta clay, they're porous, which means water can pass through the material over a period of time, so it doesn't just stay contained inside the pot. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the terracotta watering system is placed into the soil it is surrounded by moisture in the soil. This creates a tension, almost like a suction force between the water in the soil and the water inside the Olla. Water also naturally moves from areas of high concentration (wet areas) to areas of low concentration (dry areas) through the power of osmosis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs plants pull water from the soil, or water is lost from the soil through evaporation, water is naturally released from the irrigation pot - replacing exactly what was lost. If the soil is dry the Olla will naturally release more water, as there's a larger difference in water tension caused by the 'pulling' of the plants roots, as well as the dryness in the soil. But if the soil is wet, the release will be negligible as the water levels between the Olla and the surrounding soil will be very similar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt needs pretty much no attention from you, all you have to do is ensure it's kept topped up with water each week - perhaps a little more often if it's particularly warm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of using an olla watering pot?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's a whole host of benefits to using an irrigation pot, they're an excellent choice not only for you, but your plants and garden too,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe benefits include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime saving and easy maintenance, you don't have to go around watering each individual plant every day, you simply have to occasionally check the water levels of the pot and top it up when needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey ensure a constant trickling supply of water, directly to the plants roots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey promote deep and dense root growth - roots naturally grow towards their water source, by using an Olla you're ensuring your plants are receiving water from deep in the ground, not from surface soil, this encourages the roots to grow vastly and downwards towards the water source. This will help reduce the risk of root damage too.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey're incredibly water efficient, as they're sealed and deliver water deep within the soil, there's no surface evaporation to contend with and they help prevent water run off that comes with surface watering. By using an Olla, you also help prevent your plants roots from going through vicious drying and wetting cycles - the supply of water they get is constant, and the watering pot helps to ensure conditions for your plants roots remain consistent, so they should never become waterlogged or dry out.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs the water is being released deep into the soil, the topsoil naturally remains dry, this can help deter the growth of weeds or competitor plants that would otherwise thrive in damp topsoil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can I ensure my plants are getting the water they need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants can be finicky when it comes to water requirements. Some need a lot more watering than others. That's why Ollas are a great choice when it comes to choosing a watering solution - they give plants exactly what they need when they need it. But, there's a whole host of other options when it comes to water retention in your garden you might want to consider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed to target your water delivery to a specific plant or plant cluster? Why not take a peek at our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/fair-zone-self-watering-spikes\" title=\"Fair Zone Watering Spikes\"\u003eself-watering spikes\u003c\/a\u003e? These will get a water supply directly to the plants that need it most. Similar to our 300ml versions but with an upturned wine bottle, they can hold more water. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGot your watering plans under control already? Great! Why not make just a few little additions to your maintenance routine to help keep things a little more efficient? Why not add a sprinkle of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/3-5l-sheep-wool-pellets\" title=\"Sheep Wool Pellets\"\u003eorganic sheep wool pellets\u003c\/a\u003e to your pots or top your plants off with a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\" title=\"Gardening collection\"\u003ejute mulch mat\u003c\/a\u003e? Both of these items are excellent at helping retain water and prevent soil water evaporation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do you pronounce \"olla\"??\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"correct\" pronunciation is Oh-yah.  Silent LLs, like Paella. However, these are no rule ollas, and you can pronounce them however you like. Here in West Cumbria, we're pronouncing them ollah.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"1 Litre","offer_id":55115673076090,"sku":"OLA1L","price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 Litres","offer_id":55115673108858,"sku":"OLA2L","price":17.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 Litres","offer_id":55115673141626,"sku":"OLA3L","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Olla1HiRes.jpg?v=1718025918"},{"product_id":"olla-terracotta-irrigation-pot-4-litre-cylinder","title":"Olla Terracotta Irrigation Pot - 4 Litre Cylinder","description":"\u003ch4\u003eHow do I use an Olla irrigation pot?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnsuring your plants have a sufficient supply of water can be hard going, especially during dry and hot weather spells. Every day, sometimes multiple times a day, you will find yourself topping up your watering can and carefully sprinkling water over individual plants, trying to ensure they've got enough to drink to get them through the day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOlla irrigation pots are THE alternative to laborious, intensive hand watering. They ensure a constant, trickling supply of water reaches your plants' roots as and when they need it. As long as you keep the watering pot topped up, your plant will never get thirsty!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey require very little maintenance and are very simple to use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll you have to do is the following:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the space between your plants, dig a hole large enough for your Olla to sit in, ensure the hole is deep enough so the bulb of the pot is entirely covered, but that the top of the stem is still visible ( this ensures you can easily fill it with water and that you don't accidentally step on it).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefill the hole with soil, so your Olla is nice and tightly buried - apart from the top of course!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUsing a jug or hosepipe, fill your water pot until it's nice and full.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace the little terracotta lid on top - this ensures no soil, debris or wildlife accidentally drops inside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVoila! Your irrigation pot is ready to go, and will supply your plants with water as they need it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have particularly shallow rooting plants, it is possible to bury the Olla pot at an angle, making it a little bit more of a feature, as the water won't have to be delivered quite as deeply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the 300ml self-watering spikes, simply pop them into a planter or hanging basket, and push them in as far as you can. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow does the irrigation pot work?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.wmpot.co.uk\/all-about-terracotta#:~:text=Terracotta%20is%20an%20earthenware%20clay,for%20garden%20pots%20and%20containers.\" title=\"All About Terracotta, Weston Mill website\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNatural clay\u003c\/a\u003e watering pots are incredible really, there's no fancy technology or cogs and reels. It's just clever design, fantastic natural materials and allowing nature to work how it wants to!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the Ollas are made from unglazed terracotta clay, they're porous, which means water can pass through the material over a period of time, so it doesn't just stay contained inside the pot. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the terracotta watering system is placed into the soil it is surrounded by moisture in the soil. This creates a tension, almost like a suction force between the water in the soil and the water inside the Olla. Water also naturally moves from areas of high concentration (wet areas) to areas of low concentration (dry areas) through the power of osmosis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs plants pull water from the soil, or water is lost from the soil through evaporation, water is naturally released from the irrigation pot - replacing exactly what was lost. If the soil is dry the Olla will naturally release more water, as there's a larger difference in water tension caused by the 'pulling' of the plants roots, as well as the dryness in the soil. But if the soil is wet, the release will be negligible as the water levels between the Olla and the surrounding soil will be very similar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt needs pretty much no attention from you, all you have to do is ensure it's kept topped up with water each week - perhaps a little more often if it's particularly warm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhat are the benefits of using an olla watering pot?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere's a whole host of benefits to using an irrigation pot, they're an excellent choice not only for you, but your plants and garden too,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe benefits include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime saving and easy maintenance, you don't have to go around watering each individual plant every day, you simply have to occasionally check the water levels of the pot and top it up when needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey ensure a constant trickling supply of water, directly to the plants roots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey promote deep and dense root growth - roots naturally grow towards their water source, by using an Olla you're ensuring your plants are receiving water from deep in the ground, not from surface soil, this encourages the roots to grow vastly and downwards towards the water source. This will help reduce the risk of root damage too.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThey're incredibly water efficient, as they're sealed and deliver water deep within the soil, there's no surface evaporation to contend with and they help prevent water run off that comes with surface watering. By using an Olla, you also help prevent your plants roots from going through vicious drying and wetting cycles - the supply of water they get is constant, and the watering pot helps to ensure conditions for your plants roots remain consistent, so they should never become waterlogged or dry out.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs the water is being released deep into the soil, the topsoil naturally remains dry, this can help deter the growth of weeds or competitor plants that would otherwise thrive in damp topsoil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow can I ensure my plants are getting the water they need?\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants can be finicky when it comes to water requirements. Some need a lot more watering than others. That's why Ollas are a great choice when it comes to choosing a watering solution - they give plants exactly what they need when they need it. But, there's a whole host of other options when it comes to water retention in your garden you might want to consider.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed to target your water delivery to a specific plant or plant cluster? Why not take a peek at our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/fair-zone-self-watering-spikes\" title=\"Fair Zone Watering Spikes\"\u003eself-watering spikes\u003c\/a\u003e? These will get a water supply directly to the plants that need it most. Similar to our 300ml versions but with an upturned wine bottle, they can hold more water. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGot your watering plans under control already? Great! Why not make just a few little additions to your maintenance routine to help keep things a little more efficient? Why not add a sprinkle of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/products\/3-5l-sheep-wool-pellets\" title=\"Sheep Wool Pellets\"\u003eorganic sheep wool pellets\u003c\/a\u003e to your pots or top your plants off with a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimney-sheep.myshopify.com\/collections\/gardening-products\" title=\"Gardening collection\"\u003ejute mulch mat\u003c\/a\u003e? Both of these items are excellent at helping retain water and prevent soil water evaporation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow do you pronounce \"olla\"??\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"correct\" pronunciation is Oh-yah.  Silent LLs, like Paella. However, these are no rule ollas, and you can pronounce them however you like. Here in West Cumbria, we're pronouncing them ollah.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"4 Litres","offer_id":55115676680570,"sku":"OLA4L","price":32.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/LargeOlaFront2048.jpg?v=1718025918"},{"product_id":"grazers-woolch","title":"Grazers Woolch","description":"\u003ch4\u003eWhat makes Woolch so special? \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrazers Woolch isn't your average garden mulch - it's made from 100% Cumbrian sheep wool (yes, the real woolly stuff from our very own hills) and it's absolutely packed with benefits for your garden and the planet. Woolch helps to regulate soil temperature - keeping it cool when the sun's blazing and cosy when the frost sets in - while locking in moisture so you won't need to water as often. It's brilliant for flower beds, vegetable patches, pots, and containers, and it naturally keeps weeds down without resorting to chemical nasties. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd it's not just wool - Woolch is boosted with biochar, a natural \"soil sweetener\" that improves soil structure, holds on to nutrients, and helps roots thrive. It's like a slow-release energy boost for your garden, all from ingredients that are good for the earth. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePlastic-Free, Planet Friendly\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery bag or box of Woolch comes wrapped in packaging that's completely plastic-free - and fully recyclable or compostable. So it's not just what's in the bag that's sustainable - it's the whole lot. And because the wool comes from Cumbrian sheep, you're supporting local farming and making use of wool that would otherwise go to waste. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike many mulches that hang around for decades and leave behind microplastics, Woolch breaks down naturally, feeding the soil as it goes. All that's left behind? Healthy, happy plants and a nutrient-rich garden. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy Woolch is brilliant for your garden\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs it breaks down, Woolch releases nitrogen into the soil, feeding your plants and improving soil health over time. Its coarse texture also deters slugs and snails - no more slimy leaf munchers! - all without harmful pesticides. Plus, it insulates beautifully, so your soil stays just right throughout the heatwaves or cold snaps. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWoolch also pairs perfectly with our \u003ca title=\"Sheep Wool Garden Felt\" href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/sheep-wool-garden-felt?_pos=1\u0026amp;_psq=garden+felt\u0026amp;_ss=e\u0026amp;_v=1.0\u0026amp;variant=46063469363506\"\u003eSheep Wool Garden Felt\u003c\/a\u003e - a no-dig gardener's dream that adds an extra layer of insulation and moisture retention while keeping weeds at bay. Together, they're a dynamic duo for happy, healthy soil. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eHow to use Woolch\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePop on a thick layer of Woolch around your plants, leaving a little space around the stems and trunks to avoid damp build-up. Apply in spring to keep the summer moisture in, or in autumn to tuck your soil in for the winter. It breaks down slowly, so you'll get season-long benefits. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eWhy choose Woolch? \u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrazers Woolch is an easy, eco-friendly way to nourish your garden while doing right by the planet. It transforms waste wool into something genuinely useful, supports local farmers, and skips plastic entirely. It's gardening with a conscience - and your plants will thank you for it. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"50 Litre Box","offer_id":56781394674042,"sku":"GRZ005-01","price":13.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"200 Litre Box","offer_id":56781394706810,"sku":"GRZ005-02","price":39.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/Woolch-Box-1500.jpg?v=1746174571"},{"product_id":"5-litres-liquid-hebridean-organic-seaweed-fertiliser","title":"Liquid Hebridean Organic Seaweed Fertiliser - 5 Litres","description":"\u003ch4 class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eTell me more about this Organic Seaweed Fertiliser\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis seaweed is one of the richest available, containing a very wide range of elements concentrated from the sea. It contains more than 60 natural organic elements, amino acids,\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eenzymes, trace elements and many other organic substances which collectively have a catalytic effect on plant growth. By supplementing the plants own biochemistry and ensuring greater efficiency in the growth mechanisms of crops to which it is applied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAs the roots develop and strengthen, nutrients previously locked in the soil are released, thus negating deficiencies in trace elements and ensuring more effective use of fertilisers applied. Photosynthesis and the build-up carbohydrate is encouraged resulting in stronger cell structure and a plant better able to resist stress and disease.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eChecks from natural means such as drought and adverse weather as well as the induced checks of herbicides and chemical treatments are all more successfully resisted by plants treated with Hebrides Liquid Seaweed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eLiquid seaweed comprises a water-soluble concentrate of seaweed, Ascophyllum nodosum, otherwise known as bladderwrack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eHebrides Liquid Seaweed contains natural minerals, vitamins and all the essential amino acids and growth promoting substances as well as high levels of solubilised Alginates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGenerations of Hebridean Islanders knew that seaweed was good for their plants. In recent times, analysis of the seaweed extract has identified a range of plant-growth stimulants, vitamins, chelating agents, trace minerals, enzymes, and amino acids, all of which influence the growth of plants in different ways. Feeding plants with liquid seaweed fertiliser has multiple benefits for a wide range of plants:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- [if !supportLists]--\u003eGarden plants produce more flowers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- [if !supportLists]--\u003eFruit trees and bushes suffer less from softening and rotting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- [if !supportLists]--\u003eIncreased yields have been found in vegetable crops\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- [if !supportLists]--\u003ePlants demonstrate better frost tolerance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- [if !supportLists]--\u003eSeeds germinate better\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- [if !supportLists]--\u003ePlants’ ability to absorb trace elements is improved\u003c!-- [if !supportLists]--\u003eLawns are more lush and healthier-looking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePrimarily sold to professional gardeners and greenskeepers, we buy this pure liquid seaweed in bulk and decant it into mail-order sized 5 litre containers. And, the containers are made of recycled plastic right here in Cumbria! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis is a concentrated fertiliser – it is diluted at a rate of 1:30\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAnalysis of Hebrides Liquid Seaweed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003epH: 6-9\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCalcium……………………………………..410\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eMagnesium ………………………………..98\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSodium…………………………………..2,689\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePotassium ………………………….15,862\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePhosphorus ……………………………….38\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIron …………………………………………………63\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eManganese ……………………………….0.1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCopper ………………………………………..0.4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eZinc ……………………………………………….1.4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBoron…………………………………………11.2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIodine …………………………………………250\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eYou can water this onto your plants regularly over the growing season. You can even put it into \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/olla-terracotta-irrigation-pot-bulb-shape?_pos=1\u0026amp;_psq=olla\u0026amp;_ss=e\u0026amp;_v=1.0\u0026amp;variant=55115673076090\" title=\"adding liquid seaweed to terracotta ollas will help to irrigate plants and deliver fertiliser to the roots\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eollas\u003c\/a\u003e, if you have them buried in the garden. This will help to deliver the fertiliser directly to the roots, and avoid evaporation of the precious liquid.  \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55510742532474,"sku":"FER001-03","price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/LiquidSeaweed2048.jpg?v=1751640017"},{"product_id":"wool-mulch-mats","title":"Herdwick Wool Mulch Mats","description":"\u003ch4\u003eSoil-Loving, Moisture-Hugging, Frost-Fighting Wool\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMade from 100% Herdwick wool from Cumbrian flocks, these wool tree spats are a natural, eco-friendly alternative to plastic-based mulch mats or plastic sheets. Wool has plenty of super-powers when it comes to protecting and nurturing young trees. It holds onto moisture like a sponge, keeping the soil beneath damp and hydrated for longer, which means less watering is needed and the roots stay happy. As the same time, wool is brilliantly insulation - it keeps the ground warm in frosty snaps and cool in the baking summer sun. That means your trees are better protected from extreme swings in weather, giving them the best possible start in life. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese spats are made from thick felted Herdwick wool, with a hessian scrim sandwiched through the middle. That little layer of hessian makes a big difference - it holds everything together for longer while still being fully biodegradable. There are no hidden synthetics inside meaning that when they do finally break down, they don't add any microplastics to the soil. They're tough, they're natural, and they'll likely outlast other wool mulch mats you've tried, though they won't hang around quite as long as our \u003ca title=\"Natural Jute Mulch Mats\" href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/jute-tree-spats-pack-of-10?variant=46060242829618\"\u003ejute tree spats\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause they're made from wool, they slowly release a touch of goodness into the soil as they break down. Wool naturally contains nitrogen and other nutrients, so your tree roots get steady, soil-sweetening feed over time. They shouldn't usually need help staying down around the trees, but if you do want to peg them down, why not try our new and improved \u003ca title=\"Bamboo Skewers Pack of 40\" href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/bamboo-skewers-pack-of-40\"\u003eBamboo Pegs\u003c\/a\u003e? They're nice and chunky and are particularly useful with larger mats or rolls of our \u003ca title=\"Garden Felt\" href=\"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/products\/sheep-wool-garden-felt?variant=46063469363506\"\u003egarden felt\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEco-friendly, biodegradable, insulating, water-retentive, protective, nutrient-boosting, and proudly made from 100% Herdwick wool.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"20cm Round","offer_id":55783280771450,"sku":"WMM001-03","price":0.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"30cm Round","offer_id":55783280804218,"sku":"WMM001-04","price":0.9,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"35cm Round","offer_id":55783280836986,"sku":"WMM001-05","price":1.3,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"40cm Round","offer_id":55783280869754,"sku":"WMM001-06","price":1.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"40cm Square","offer_id":55783280902522,"sku":"WMM002-06","price":1.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/FeltedWoolMulchMat40cmRound2048.jpg?v=1755788423"},{"product_id":"organic-wool-mulch-mat","title":"Organic Wool Mulch Mat","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003ePurchasing these wool mulch mats helps to support the Himalana™ project for certified organic wool from the high valleys of the Indian Himalayas – the first certified organic herd in India! That’s really quite an achievement and a commendable operation to support.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSome of the Himalana™ sheep wool cannot be spun into yarn, so it is made into mulch mats. This adds value to what otherwise would be a waste product. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThese have a slight sheepy odour to them which means they still contain pest-deterring lanolin. Studies have shown that deer avoid plants that smell of sheep, and there's anecdotal evidence that sheep grease deters rabbits and hares too. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eJust as we work directly with local farmers in Cumbria, Diversity Honeys have connected with Prolana who work with the Himalayan farmers to ensure that they receive a better income for their wool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eRead more about the Himalana™ project here: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/prolana.com\/en\/pages\/himalana-fairly-traded-organic-wool\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Himalana Fairly Traded Organic Wool\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003ehttps:\/\/prolana.com\/en\/pages\/himalana-fairly-traded-organic-wool\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"20cm","offer_id":56609727152506,"sku":"PFMM_20","price":0.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"30cm","offer_id":56609727316346,"sku":"PFMM_30","price":0.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"40cm","offer_id":56609727349114,"sku":"PFMM_40","price":1.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"60cm","offer_id":56609727381882,"sku":"PFMM_60","price":1.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/RoofoftheWorldMulchMat2048.jpg?v=1772614375"},{"product_id":"plastic-free-vegetable-net","title":"Plastic Free Vegetable Protection Net","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere's something quietly reassuring about stepping into the garden and knowing everything's been thought of... the seedlings tucked in, the soil just so, and your precious crops given a little gentle protection from the outside world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis rather lovely organic cotton fruit and vegetable protection net is just the thing for that. With no fuss and no harsh plastics, this net is a simple and natural way to look after what you've grown with care. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMade from bio-certified organic cotton, this soft and breathable netting offers a wonderfully plastic-free gardening solution that feels right at home in a thoughtful, earth-kind garden. It's designed to keep nibbling visitors at bay - whether that's birds with a keen eye for berries or insects looking to make themselves a little too comfortable - while still letting the good things through. Rain, air and sunlight can all pass easily, helping your plants grow just as they should. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnd that's the magic of it really. It protects without interrupting. There's no need for you to keep lifting the side and fussing. Just lay it gently over your veg patch, fruit bushes, or raised beds, and let it settle in like a soft, breathable blanket. It's the sort of eco-friendly garden netting that quietly gets on with the job while you get on with the joy of growing. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe size is generous enough to be properly useful too. It's lightweight, easy to handle, and kind and delicate on stems. Adding nothing other than peace of mind. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat we really love, in a very Chimney Sheep sort of way, is how this netting fits into a slower, more considered way of gardening. It's not about battling nature or wrapping everything in plastic. It's about working alongside things, nudging gently where needed, and choosing materials that won't hang around in the soil long after their job is done. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're leaning towards sustainable gardening, trying to reduce plastics, or simply want a more natural way to care for your crops, this is a small swap that feels like a big step in the right direction. A proper little helper for the veg patch that you'll findyourself reaching for year after year, like your favourite pair of gardening gloves.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chimney Sheep","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56705196884346,"sku":"PF009-01","price":5.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/files\/GardenProtectionNet.jpg?v=1774368647"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/7322\/5010\/collections\/G3_spraying_1.jpg?v=1692110807","url":"https:\/\/chimneysheep.co.uk\/collections\/plant-protection.oembed?page=3","provider":"Chimney Sheep","version":"1.0","type":"link"}