Oat straw OK?

Greetings. I found straw available locally listed as oat straw. I want to use it for composting and for topping planting beds and swailes. Is oat straw ok for this?

oat straw itself isn't a problem. it could have pesticide and herbicide residue on it, though.

Thank you Tel. I never thought to ask. I will call them back and ask. (I am totally new to this so I am trying to arrange materials to get started this spring).

I have used oat straw and like it. Pesticides are a concern with any type of straw, so you just have to find your comfort zone there. Having access to the farmer and understanding their methods can help.

Another thing you should know is that Oat straw often still has seeds in it. I have had oats pop up all over our sheet mulched beds. They look like grass. It wasn't a big problem for me, just a little extra weeding.