No dig garden in 3 months

by Leanne
(Greenbelt, Ontario, Canada)

I am creating somewhat of a raised bed garden, depending how much compost I get, and I would like to kill the grass and prevent weeds. I am laying down and building at the beginning of May.

If I lay down newspaper will it decompose on time to allow for the plant roots to penetrate the ground and anchor into the ground below? The soil in the ground is a lovely condition.

I'm also worried about the winds drying out my plants, because it is a very windy area.

Any advice is appreciated. Thank-you.

Comments for No dig garden in 3 months

Click here to add your own comments

Jun 02, 2013

Lots of newspaper or cardboard NEW
by: Anonymous

Hi,

I lay down newspaper (black & white) and/or cardboard when I am establishing a new bed where I don't want to dig up all the grass. I find that newspaper works well if you put down a VERY thick layer of it, or else it will break down too fast and grass will spring through it.

I also thoroughly "water" the cardboard/newspaper before placing soil/compost on it. I just did this for my pumpkin patch about a week ago, and in about a week when the roots get to cardboard level it should be weak enough to let the roots shoot through and the worms come up.

Good luck!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Garden materials, soil, compost and mulch.

Back to HOME page: No Dig Vegetable Garden