Straw bale gardening

Embarking on a new adventure. I decided to try straw bale gardening this year. Why, you might ask? Last year's traditional garden did not produce as I had hoped. We have a new spot that is in a low spot. ALL the rain from the neighboring hillside washes across the garden. We tried reroute get the water, but, during downpours, it didn't help. I started reading and came across straw bale gardening. What a concept. So, I asked the hubby to get some straw bales for my garden adventure. He was not so fond of the idea but did it anyway. Now I have 16 straw bales across the back fence. I noticed that the bales are not exactly like they are supposed to be. Per instructions 1) position bales so that the strings are around the sides of the bales, NOT on top. Check 2) straw in bale should be vertical so the water and fertilizer will be pulled into the bale and excess water drains out the bottom of the bale. What? Mine are the opposite. So back to google. I found a post that stated, even if the straw in the bale is not position right, still keep the strings around the sides of the bales. Ok, I have been fertilizing and watering the bales per instructions. I have been checking the temperature of the bales with a meat thermometer. My bales still have not reached 120 degrees like post stated. So, back to google. I found yet another post, where she was conditioning her bales in February as well. She said she took a rod and poked holes in the bales prior to fertilizing and watering. Why reinvent the wheel. I poked holes in mine, fertile days and watered in hopes to get the temp up to 120 degrees. I will update the post as I live and learn. I haven't kept track of the amount I have spent thus far. I will try and go back and get this data. Benefits of straw bale gardening for me -> they are raised, making it easier on this seniors knees and back. There is supposed to be less weeding (I actually love to get my hands in the soul, it's like an antidepressant). No tilling required. My hubby should like that.