Should I put newspaper under my mulch?
Absolutely! Putting newspaper under your mulch can be a great strategy to control weeds and improve the health of your garden soil. I have personally used this method in my own garden, and I’ve found it to be highly effective.
The first step is to lay several sheets of newspaper, or a small section of it, down on your garden paths. You want to create a barrier between the soil and the mulch to prevent weed growth. The newspaper acts as a weed suppressor by blocking sunlight, which is essential for weed germination. It also acts as a physical barrier, making it difficult for weeds to push through.
Once you have laid down the newspaper, it’s time to apply a thick layer of mulch on top. You can use various types of mulch, such as wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves. The mulch serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it helps to retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering. Secondly, it acts as an insulating layer, protecting the soil and plant roots from extreme temperatures. Lastly, it adds an aesthetic appeal to your garden, giving it a neat and well-maintained look.
In windy locations, it’s a good idea to use landscaping staples to anchor the newspaper in place. This will prevent it from blowing away and ensure that it remains effective in suppressing weeds. These staples are easily available at garden centers or online.
One of the significant benefits of using newspaper under mulch is that it eventually breaks down and adds organic matter to the soil. As the newspaper decomposes, it provides nutrients to the plants and improves soil structure. This organic matter helps to increase soil fertility, water retention, and overall plant health.
Another advantage of this method is that it is an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic weed barriers or herbicides. By using newspaper, you are avoiding the use of chemicals in your garden, which is beneficial for both the environment and your health.
It’s important to note that the thickness of the newspaper layer will influence its effectiveness. I recommend using multiple sheets or overlapping them to ensure adequate coverage. Thicker layers are more resistant to weed growth and decomposition, so aim for at least 6-8 sheets of newspaper.
Over time, you may need to replenish the mulch layer as it breaks down and decomposes. This is normal and should be done annually or as needed. By doing so, you will continue to suppress weeds and maintain a healthy garden environment.
Using newspaper under your mulch is a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to control weeds and improve soil health in your garden. I highly recommend giving it a try.
