Question
Hi Mark;
I have been using cyprus mulch on my flower beds for years. Yesterday I got a real bargin on cocoa bean shells. The bags had no info re use. Then I realized that I had used the cocoa shells years ago and as I recall, it was a mess. I recall that they matted up and molded. Do you have any info. re advantages/disadvantages of cocoa shell , where it can be used or not used, etc.?
Thanks in advance for your reply. I appreciate the help.

Bill Bollaert  

Answer
Bill,

Sorry.  No opinion eitherway, since cocoa shells aren't available in my area.

My mulch of choice is always sifted compost. I stay away from processed, but not decomposed material (around here it's bark bark bark).  It ties up nitrogen as it decomposes after application, and robs the plants that it's supposed to help.

Mark in Portland Oregon