Yeah all I have access too is wood chip mulch and it doesn’t layer in good with the garlic. Wish I could find some clean hay/straw, everything here is sprayed with aminopyralids
Discussion
I have used chopped leaves in a pinch. Probably too late for this year but keep it in mind when it comes autumn. Rake them if you got em or ask your neighbors for a couple bags, people are always glad to get rid of them. Run them over with the lawnmower and spread 4” or so over the beds after planting. Works just as well as straw imo.