DIY Environment Can I use newspaper or cardboard on top of existing weeds? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Using newspaper or cardboard to control weeds is a practical and environmentally friendly method that can help you manage unwanted plants in your garden. This technique, known as sheet mulching or lasagna gardening, involves layering these materials over weeds to block sunlight, effectively suppressing their growth. By understanding the benefits and steps involved, you can […] Read more »
DIY Environment Does newspaper block sunlight effectively enough to kill weeds? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Newspapers can be an effective tool for blocking sunlight and suppressing weed growth in gardens. By creating a barrier that limits sunlight exposure, newspapers deprive weeds of the light they need to grow, ultimately helping to kill them. This eco-friendly method is affordable and easy to implement, making it a popular choice for gardeners. How […] Read more »
DIY Environment How often should I replace newspaper or cardboard used for weed suppression? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Replacing newspaper or cardboard used for weed suppression is essential to maintain its effectiveness in your garden. Typically, these materials should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on environmental conditions and the rate of decomposition. How Does Newspaper and Cardboard Suppress Weeds? Using newspaper and cardboard is a popular method for weed control […] Read more »
DIY Environment Is newspaper safe for use in vegetable gardens? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Is newspaper safe for use in vegetable gardens? The short answer is yes, using newspaper in vegetable gardens is generally safe and can be beneficial. Newspapers can serve as effective mulch, helping to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and improve soil quality as they decompose. However, it’s important to use them correctly to maximize their […] Read more »
DIY Environment How does using cardboard compare to using landscape fabric for weed control? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Using cardboard for weed control is an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative to landscape fabric. While both options suppress weeds, cardboard also enriches the soil as it decomposes, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners. This article explores the benefits and drawbacks of using cardboard versus landscape fabric for weed control, helping you make an informed decision […] Read more »
DIY Environment Can I use colored newspaper for weed control? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Can I use colored newspaper for weed control? Absolutely, colored newspaper can be used effectively for weed control in your garden. It acts as a natural mulch, suppressing weeds by blocking sunlight and retaining soil moisture. However, ensure the ink is soy-based, as it is eco-friendly and safe for plants. Why Use Colored Newspaper for […] Read more »
DIY Environment Do I need to remove the tape from cardboard before using it in the garden? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Do I need to remove the tape from cardboard before using it in the garden? Yes, it is advisable to remove tape from cardboard before using it in the garden. Tape, especially plastic-based types, does not decompose easily and can hinder the breakdown process of cardboard, which is typically used for mulching or composting. Why […] Read more »
DIY Environment How long does cardboard take to decompose in the garden? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Cardboard is a common material in gardens, often used for mulching or composting. Understanding how long it takes to decompose can help gardeners plan its use effectively. Cardboard typically takes about 3 months to 1 year to decompose in a garden, depending on environmental conditions such as moisture, temperature, and the presence of microorganisms. How […] Read more »
DIY Environment Is it necessary to wet the newspaper before using it for weed control? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Is it necessary to wet the newspaper before using it for weed control? Wetting the newspaper before using it for weed control is essential for effective results. Moistening the newspaper helps it stay in place, encourages decomposition, and creates a barrier that smothers weeds while allowing nutrients to reach the soil. Why Wetting the Newspaper […] Read more »
DIY Environment How many layers of newspaper are needed to block weeds? November 21, 2025 by Herb | Leave a Comment Blocking weeds effectively with newspaper is a simple and eco-friendly method that many gardeners use. To achieve the best results, you typically need 5 to 7 layers of newspaper. This thickness creates a sufficient barrier to block sunlight, which is crucial for preventing weed growth. Why Use Newspaper for Weed Control? Using newspaper in your […] Read more »