Wouldn't you know that just as I find out there's a new list full of folks I've been missing (thanks to Marcelle), I've missed all the jokes! Please fill me in. I need a laugh. As for compost and newspaper, it worked for me here - zone 5 - this past winter but had I to do it over again I would use more than 6" of compost. Alot more. Can't wait to see who else is hanging out on gardeners. How long has this been going on? Cheryl Schaefer, Schaefer Yarns Beautiful hand painted fibers schaefer@epix.net Zone 5 in the fabulous Finger Lakes of NY