Home Improvement Ideas Costs, promotions, types, and availability may range. When starting a straw bale backyard, it is essential to use bales of actual straw and never hay—the two are usually not interchangeable. The very best source of straw bales are local farms , although they’re also available at nurseries and feed shops (ornamental bales from craft shops are usually not recommended). In addition, you’ll additionally need: fertilizer, potting soil, compost, a trowel, seeds or seedlings, and optional wire fence. … Read more