My grandma taught me this trick to use cardboard for weed suppression. Here’s how it works.

Laying Down the Cardboard: Cut the cardboard into manageable pieces and lay them flat in the garden. Overlap the pieces by at least six inches to prevent weeds from growing through the gaps. If needed, trim the cardboard to fit around plants or the edges of your garden.
Covering the Cardboard: After laying down the cardboard, cover it with a thick layer of organic mulch (2-3 inches). The mulch will keep the cardboard in place and provide an additional barrier against weeds, while also helping to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Watering and Maintenance: Water the area well after applying the mulch to help the cardboard settle and begin breaking down. Throughout the growing season, check the mulch and add more as needed to maintain its thickness. As the cardboard decomposes, it enriches the soil. You can simply add new layers of cardboard at the start of each planting season.
Benefits of Using Cardboard for Weed Suppression:
Cost-effective: Cardboard is often free if you have old boxes lying around.
Eco-friendly: It decomposes naturally, enriching the soil without adding harmful chemicals.
Chemical-free: Avoids the risks associated with chemical herbicides.
Soil-friendly: Allows water and nutrients to reach the soil, unlike plastic barriers.
Recycling: Provides a practical use for recyclable materials that would otherwise be discarded.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Using glossy or ink-heavy cardboard: These types may contain chemicals that are harmful to the soil.
Not overlapping cardboard enough: Gaps can allow weeds to sneak through.
Failing to apply enough mulch: Without sufficient mulch, the cardboard might shift or degrade too quickly.
Neglecting watering: Make sure to keep the mulch layer moist to support the decomposition process.
Conclusion:
Using cardboard for weed suppression is a simple yet powerful gardening technique passed down to me by my grandma. It’s not only effective but also promotes sustainable gardening practices. With proper preparation and maintenance, this method can help you keep weeds at bay while enriching your soil and boosting your garden’s productivity. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, give this eco-friendly trick a try and see the benefits for yourself!