Hey, it's worth a try! I already have a paper shredder. Should it be wheat flour or does it not matter?

just wondered if this is an idea you came up with or did someone else use it?
Are there any others who have used it?
Hate to be skeptical but I always like people to have tried the stuff themself so they can answer any questions. I find the soggy newspaper gets gloppy and gluey alone without the paper mache stuff. I do not place it too close to the plant though for fear of fungus and what have you.
Anyone else try this???
tanya

Yes - It was my idea and I do use it. I did a square foot vegi garden last year. I used it because the sun was heating up the black soil so much and the light color of the paper kept the soil a little cooler. I didn't use mulch over it then. Even so I had barely any weeds. The only time I saw weeds was this spring when the paper began to break down. Had no problem with soil fungus. I just did the bed where I have rain lilies. The only thing that makes this paper mache is the flour and water.

I use thick layers of wet newspapers (unstredded) with mulch on top. Works like a charm. I think I'll save the flour for baking bread. LOL

I add shredded junk mail and other paper to my compost bin.

Oh msmarion, you are so funny! :^) I couldn't stop laughing about "save the flour", don't know why.

Will retrieve newspapers from my recycle bin & use them for weed-proofing. Those darn weeds are beating me at the mulch-game right now.

Interesting idea - have you posted it on the Soil & Compost forum yet?

FWIW, I understand grains add a nice dose of phosphorus & generally encourage beneficial soil microorganisms.

The only thing I'd be wary of is the inks & fillers in some of that junk mail - I'd avoid the colorful, shiny papers & stick to black & white, myself.

Tried it. It is a fire hazard and eventually turns into nothing. You will wear out your shredder in the mean time.

Gluten in flour is a seed germination