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Cardboard Gardening: A Guide for Young Gardeners
Introduction
Cardboard is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of purposes in the garden. It’s a great way to recycle, and it can also help you grow healthier plants. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways you can use cardboard in your garden.
Benefits of Using Cardboard in the Garden
- Suppresses weeds: Cardboard can be used to smother weeds and prevent them from growing. This is a great way to reduce the amount of weeding you have to do.
- Adds nutrients to the soil: Cardboard is a good source of carbon, which is an essential nutrient for plants. When cardboard breaks down, it releases carbon into the soil, which helps to improve soil fertility.
- Improves soil structure: Cardboard can help to improve soil structure by adding organic matter. This helps to create a more porous soil that is better able to drain water and hold nutrients.
- Attracts earthworms: Earthworms love to eat cardboard. When they do, they help to aerate the soil and improve its drainage.
How to Use Cardboard in the Garden
There are many different ways to use cardboard in the garden. Here are a few of the most popular methods:
- Sheet mulching: Sheet mulching is a great way to kill weeds and prepare a new garden bed. To do this, simply lay down a layer of cardboard over the area where you want to plant. Then, cover the cardboard with a layer of mulch. The cardboard will smother the weeds and prevent them from growing back. Over time, the cardboard will break down and add nutrients to the soil.
- Layered beds: Layered beds are a great way to create a nutrient-rich garden bed. To do this, start by laying down a layer of cardboard. Then, add a layer of compost or manure. Repeat these layers until the bed is about 12 inches deep. Water the bed well and let it sit for a few weeks before planting.
- Weed suppression: Cardboard can be used to suppress weeds in any area of the garden. Simply cut the cardboard into pieces and place it around the plants. The cardboard will block the sunlight from reaching the weeds, which will prevent them from growing.
- Carbon source: Cardboard is a good source of carbon, which is an essential nutrient for plants. You can add cardboard to your compost pile or use it as a mulch around your plants.
Tips for Using Cardboard in the Garden
- Use plain cardboard. Avoid using cardboard that has been printed with ink or coated with plastic.
- Remove any tape or labels from the cardboard.
- Moisten the cardboard before using it. This will help it to break down more quickly.
- Cover the cardboard with a layer of mulch. This will help to keep it in place and prevent it from blowing away.
Conclusion
Cardboard is a versatile and inexpensive material that can be used for a variety of purposes in the garden. It’s a great way to recycle, and it can also help you grow healthier plants. By following the tips in this article, you can get the most out of using cardboard in your garden.
