Rather than using herbicides, landscape fabric, or plastic sheeting to control weeds in your garden or planting beds, try putting down cardboard instead as a green solution.

To use cardboard as a weed barrier in your garden:

  • Break down cardboard boxes and remove any plastic packing tape.
  • Lay the cardboard on the ground in your garden or planting bed.
  • Wet the cardboard down with a garden hose.
  • Cover the cardboard with a layer of mulch.
  • When planting, cut a hole in the cardboard for each plant.

As the cardboard breaks down over time, it makes sugar, which attracts earthworms to improve your soil.

Watch the video above to find out more.

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

A lot of the time people have the idea that in order to think green, you have to think outside the box. Well, today I thought I’d show you a way to think green with the box by making a simple weed barrier.

You don’t even have to pull any of the weeds, just break the box down, and place it directly on top of the weeds. Overlap the seams so there are no gaps, then soak all this with water to really speed up the decomposition. Now you’re ready to cover this with mulch, which will compress down in just a few days.

Another benefit is that as the cardboard breaks down, it produces a sugar that attracts earthworms; which, in turn, creates healthy soil. You can plant anything you want in this new weed free bed. Just cut through the cardboard when making your hole. And, smile knowing you’ve helping to keep more waste out of landfills.


Further Information

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

Learn More