Joel Karsten, a horticulture science graduate and gardening pioneer, has shared his revolutionary technique to grow fresh vegetables and flowers anywhere, regardless of soil conditions or backyard space. In his book, Straw Bale Gardens Complete, Karsten explains how straw bale gardening can help lower grocery bills and provide the freshest, most delicious tasting veggies.
Karsten’s unique method requires no soil and works in any climate, making it accessible to everyone, even those with bad soil or no backyard at all.
“Tomatoes, even in season, are a couple of dollars a pound, and it isn’t uncommon to grow 100-plus pounds of tomatoes from a single bale,” he said. “The savings you’ll get from growing a garden are astounding and make a huge difference in any family budget.”
Using straw bales as a raised garden bed, the technique requires less maintenance and weeding and is more accessible for seniors who can’t do the hard physical work of gardening.
The raised height also allows for easy access and reduces bending and kneeling.
The book provides detailed steps for planning, planting, and harvesting a straw bale garden, as well as bale variations and options, watering guidelines, and plant profiles. It also includes tips for irrigating in dry climates, gardening in small and urban spaces, and even DIY instructions for homemade bales from compostable materials.
According to Karsten, even those who have never tasted fresh veggies straight from the garden are in for a treat. He emphasizes that the flavor of fresh vegetables is unmatched, and the savings gained from growing a garden can make a huge difference in any family budget.
Karsten’s method is not limited to vegetables. Flowers can also be grown in straw bales, making it an excellent option for those looking to create beautiful flower arrangements without breaking the bank. With just one bale, anyone can grow enough flowers to make 50 vases of cut flowers all summer long.
Joel Karsten has made more than 2,000 presentations about straw bale gardening since his first appearance on the local news. He and his wife, Patty, live in Roseville with their dog, Tucker. To learn more about Karsten’s revolutionary technique and to access his book, Straw Bale Gardens Complete, visit https://strawbalegardens.com/.