Can I use old puzzle books for mulching house plants?
@macdingolinger (10385)
United States
July 19, 2009 7:09pm CST
I live in a nursing facility and have been through several crossword puzzle books. I cannot think of a good way to recycle them. I was wondering if I could shred the pages and use them for mulch in my house plants. The plants do tend to dry out with the air running all day. Anyway, just wondered if it was even a decent idea or not? Any help??
2 people like this
4 responses
@psychotaz206 (2086)
• United States
20 Jul 09
it a good idea it will help the plant so i would say yes to give it a try i used shredded up paper in mine and they seen to do doing just fine. it should help hold in the moisture so they don't get all dryed up after awhile the paper will disapear from being all wet it will deconpose but it should be ok for you to use.
3 people like this
@macdingolinger (10385)
• United States
20 Jul 09
Cool, it seemed like it would work. I couldn't see any reason to not at least try... of course I don't want to hurt my plants!!!
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@fasttalker (2796)
• United States
20 Jul 09
I think that sounds like a great idea. The only other use I can think of would be paper mache crafts. But they would work great as a mulch. Good Luck and let us know how it works!! Have a great day!
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@macdingolinger (10385)
• United States
20 Jul 09
Since I don't do crafts, plants it is!!! I'll be trying it soon as I will complete the book. I also so some plants here at the facility that are outside but in pots, so I may try to stick some in there too!
@pergammano (7682)
• Canada
20 Jul 09
My only concern would be the age of the Crossword Puzzle books? I am guessing you are in the U.S. and I do not know when they started prohibiting the lead in the ink, and of course, that would contaminate the soil! If they are newer, I would think that you would have NO problem! Have a great day...and Cheers!
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@macdingolinger (10385)
• United States
20 Jul 09
They should be newer as they have been purchased in the last 8 months. I think we no longer put lead in pencils or in ink. Thanks..
@macdingolinger (10385)
• United States
20 Jul 09
I was thinking it might be a good alternative to just throwing them away. There really isn't any other way to "recycle" that I can think of, since they are already worked! :)
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