Sheet Mulching

In this video, Tricia will show you how to get rid of weeds, or even part of your lawn, using a technique called "sheet mulching!" For additional options, see our large selection of weed control products for sale.

Transform Your Lawn with Sheet Mulching: A Sustainable Gardening Solution

Sheet mulching is an targeted and nonchemical method to eliminate unwanted lawn areas while enriching your soil. This simple and effective technique is perfect for preparing a garden bed or stopping grass from encroaching on your plants. Follow these steps to create a healthier, weed-free garden area.

What You’ll Need

Gather your materials: newspaper, cardboard, or any non-glossy paper; organic mulch; and water. If you want to supercharge the process, have some compost on hand to enhance soil nutrients.

Preparing the Area

Start in the fall, ideally before the rains arrive. Mow or clip the grasses in the area you wish to transform, cutting them as close to the ground as possible. Wet the ground thoroughly to help jumpstart decomposition. For an added boost, spread a thin layer of compost over the soil before laying your paper.

Laying the Sheet Mulch

Place the newspaper or cardboard over the area, ensuring the edges overlap to prevent gaps where weeds could sneak through. Once the paper is in place, saturate it with water to keep it from blowing away and to help it adhere to the ground.

Adding Mulch

Cover the paper layer with 4–6 inches of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw. Water the mulch generously to help it stay in place and begin decomposing. Winter rains will keep the mulch moist, allowing the sheet mulch to break down and feed the soil by spring.

Sheet mulching is a sustainable way to suppress weeds, nourish your soil, and prepare for a beautiful garden. Try this method and grow organic for life!