Cardboard

Cardboard and newspaper have long been touted as excellent tools to block weeds, protect raised beds, and in sheet mulching.

We were wrong.

Cardboard (Pixabay)

It is true that cardboard and newspaper block weeds. What we have found is that cardboard and newspaper do not always breakdown the way we expect. Without sufficient moisture, cardboard and newspaper can create durable barriers that attract a couple of serious pests.

Cardboard and vermin

It ends up that termites and voles love cardboard. By putting a layer of cardboard under your raised beds, you are putting out the vole and termite welcome mat. If you have voles, forget the cardboard and use sturdy hardware cloth instead.

Cardboard and sheet mulching

The use of cardboard and newspaper in sheet mulching restricts water and gas exchanges. This means nearby plants have a harder time getting the air and water they need. Depending on the soil structure and other conditions, the soil may become so dry that it is hydrophobic, leaving installed plants to die of thirst and weeds around the edges of the cardboard to enjoy the runoff it creates.

Cardboard and newspaper can also slow evaporation and aeration, setting the stage for fungal disease and root rots. Newspaper, if kept moist, will break down. If it is not kept moist, it becomes a barrier. Sheet mulching only works successfully as a temporary weed control measure. Long term use of newspaper or cardboard actually creates more problems than it prevents.

What to do if the cardboard is already in place?

If you already have cardboard and newspaper in place, inspect it for signs of termites and voles. If signs of either are visible, remove it completely, bag it, and throw it in the trash. Then, inspect the soil underneath for signs of life. If the sublayer looks like hardpan or mud, you will need to treat it accordingly.

Hardpan layers need organic material. Mud needs to dry out. Unless roots have grown into the cardboard layer, it is better to remove it completely. If it cannot be removed, poke holes in it and water it until it decomposes.

Once you have corrected the problem, cover the area with a healthy layer of coarse wood chips and let it go fallow for a while. The wood chips will reduce weeds while feeding important soil microorganisms.

Brassica collar

Cardboard still makes an excellent brassica collar or earwig trap. Beyond that, send it to the recycling center.