Thinking about doing some planting this spring? Don’t forget the cardboard!

Gardening is well-known for its array of therapeutic and physical benefits, but starting a new flower or veggie patch from scratch can test the patience of even the most dedicated gardeners. Between digging, overturning grass, and refreshing soil, this process can take upwards of hours. 

To make creating new garden beds more enjoyable, some gardeners are turning to cardboard as a base. Here’s how it works.
 

@gardenary Save your cardboard and make a garden instead! #kitchengardenrevival #gardendesign #gardenideas #gardening101 #gardenproject #kitchengarden #gardener #sustainablegarden #nativeplant #nativegarden #wildlifehabitat ♬ original sound - Gardenary

Why cardboard?

As the name suggests, a cardboard garden uses recycled cardboard as a base for your garden. Biodegradable cardboard helps to act as a barrier against weeds and naturally breaks down, providing you with a nutrient-rich garden bed. 

@bethsabode Is this the easiest and quickest method for creating and extending your garden beds? Trying the no-dig method for the first time #gardenhacks #gardenadvice #nodiggardening #gardendesignideas ♬ original sound - Beth’s Abode | Wedding & Home

How to create a cardboard garden 

1. Lay pieces of broken-down boxes—with little ink and no shiny outer layer—onto the grass. Make sure no grass is visible so it doesn’t grow through into your garden.

2. Wet the cardboard thoroughly, then add soil or mulch on top.

3. Next, patience is key. Wait until the cardboard breaks down and your garden settles into its new home.

4. Once the soil is settled, you’re ready to plant! 
 

Recommended

8 Essential Early Spring Gardening Tasks

By: Style At Home

With the snow slowly melting and the birds chirping again, it’s time for gardening enthusiasts to start preparing for the season ahead. 

Read More

Recommended

Bee-Friendly Plants for a Buzzing Garden

By: Katia Gorshkova

Bees are essential pollinators, playing a crucial role in the health of our ecosystems and the production of many crops.

Read More