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Using cardboard or paper mulch in your garden is a simple, eco-friendly way to:
- Control weeds: Blocks sunlight to prevent weed growth.
- Conserve water: Retains soil moisture, reducing evaporation.
- Reduce waste: Repurposes recyclable materials, keeping them out of landfills.
- Enrich soil: Breaks down over time, adding nutrients and improving soil structure.
Cardboard is durable (lasts 6–12 months) and best for new beds, pathways, or long-term projects.
Paper mulch is lightweight (lasts 3–6 months) and ideal for seasonal gardens or curved areas.
Quick Tip: Cover your mulch with wood chips or compost for better results and secure it with pins on slopes.
Want to know how to apply it effectively? Keep reading for step-by-step guidance.
Why Use Cardboard and Paper Mulch
Controlling Weeds and Improving Soil
Cardboard and paper mulch create a light-blocking layer that helps prevent weeds from growing. As they break down, they improve the soil’s structure, add nutrients, and support earthworms and microbes that enhance soil health.
Conserving Water
These materials help retain moisture by reducing evaporation, which is especially useful during Maryland’s hot summers. This means less frequent watering is needed.
Reducing Waste
Using cardboard and paper as mulch gives these materials a second life, keeping them out of landfills. This approach supports Pro Landscapes MD‘s environmental goals[1].
Up next, learn about the best cardboard sheets and paper rolls for your garden.
How to use cardboard in your landscaping 🪴 Landscape …
Mulch Options: Cardboard and Paper
Here’s a look at two popular mulch options: cardboard sheets and paper mulch rolls.
Using Cardboard Sheets
Corrugated cardboard works as a sturdy, biodegradable weed and moisture barrier. Before using, make sure to remove any tape, staples, or glossy finishes.
To apply, lay the sheets on the soil with a 2–3-inch overlap. Keep a 1–2-inch gap around tree trunks to allow proper airflow.
Common uses for cardboard sheets include:
- Garden beds
- Tree rings
- Pathways
- Starting new beds
Paper Mulch Rolls
Recycled paper mulch rolls create a short-term solution for controlling weeds and keeping soil moist, making them great for seasonal plantings.
They’re often used for:
- Vegetable gardens
- Annual flower beds
- Temporary weed barriers
- Stabilizing slopes
For best results, cover the paper with a 1–2-inch layer of wood chips or compost. On slopes, secure the paper with landscape pins to keep it in place.
Pro Landscapes MD regularly incorporates these mulching methods into their eco-conscious, low-maintenance landscaping projects across Maryland.
How to Apply Mulch
Here’s a simple guide to effectively applying cardboard or paper mulch.
Getting the Site Ready
- Clear away any rocks, sticks, or dead plants.
- Pull out weeds, making sure to remove the roots.
- Lightly water the soil to moisten it.
- Smooth out the surface for an even application.
Installing the Mulch
For Cardboard:
- Overlap the edges by 6–8 inches to ensure full coverage.
- Remove any tape, staples, or plastic coatings.
- Lightly dampen each layer as you lay it down.
- Use pins to secure the edges every 2–3 feet.
For Paper Rolls:
- Lay the paper along the slope to prevent erosion.
- Overlap the edges by about 4 inches.
- Pin the edges down every 12–18 inches to keep them in place.
- Leave a 2-inch gap around plant stems to avoid smothering them.
Wrapping Up
- Add a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch on top.
- Water everything to help settle the materials.
- Create clean, defined edges for a polished look.
- Keep a 2-inch gap around plants for airflow.
- Check the mulch monthly and add more if needed to maintain coverage.
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Cardboard vs Paper Mulch
Pro Landscapes MD emphasizes eco-friendly practices, so it’s essential to choose the right mulch for your project. Here’s how cardboard and paper mulch compare in key areas:
Feature Comparison
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Durability
- Cardboard: Holds up for 6-12 months.
- Paper: Breaks down faster, lasting 3-6 months.
Ease of Handling
- Cardboard: Heavier and takes more effort to work with.
- Paper: Lightweight and simple to cut or shape.
Best Uses
- Cardboard:
- Ideal for new garden beds or no-dig setups.
- Works well in high-traffic areas and permanent pathways.
- Paper:
- Great for sloped areas or curved edges.
- Perfect for use around existing plants or in seasonal gardens.
Maryland Climate and Soil Tips
When deciding between cardboard and paper mulch, it’s important to consider Maryland’s specific soil and climate features. For areas with clay-heavy soil – often found in central Maryland – it’s crucial to grade and level the ground to avoid water pooling. Proper preparation can make a big difference in mulch effectiveness.
Cardboard tends to last longer in these conditions since clay soil can cause paper mulch to break down more quickly. To get the best results, consult experts like Pro Landscapes MD for help with soil preparation, drainage solutions, and land grading tailored to Maryland’s unique conditions [1].
Next Steps
Now that your soil is ready and mulch is set, working with experts can make the installation process smooth and effective. Reach out to Pro Landscapes MD to schedule your cardboard and paper mulch installation. They take care of everything – from site preparation and grading to drainage and maintenance – making sure your mulch works efficiently throughout the year in central Maryland.
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing between cardboard and paper mulch for my garden?
When deciding between cardboard and paper mulch, consider your garden’s specific needs and the materials’ benefits. Cardboard mulch is excellent for suppressing weeds and retaining soil moisture. It works well in areas with larger plants or shrubs, as it provides a sturdy barrier and decomposes slowly. Paper mulch, on the other hand, is thinner and breaks down faster, making it ideal for vegetable gardens or flower beds where quicker decomposition can enrich the soil.
Both options are eco-friendly and can improve soil health over time. Be sure to avoid using glossy or colored materials, as they may contain chemicals that are harmful to your garden. For best results, layer the mulch evenly and secure it with a natural covering like wood chips or straw to prevent it from shifting in the wind.
How should I prepare my garden before applying cardboard or paper mulch?
To prepare your garden for cardboard or paper mulch, start by clearing the area of weeds, grass, and debris. This ensures the mulch can lay flat and effectively block sunlight, preventing weed growth. Next, water the soil thoroughly to help retain moisture beneath the mulch. For best results, consider adding a layer of compost or organic material on the soil before applying the mulch, as this will enrich the soil as it breaks down.
When laying the cardboard or paper, overlap the edges to create a seamless barrier, and make sure to remove any tape, staples, or glossy coatings from the materials. Finish by adding a layer of organic mulch, like wood chips or straw, on top to weigh down the paper or cardboard and improve the aesthetics of your garden.
How do I make cardboard or paper mulch last longer and work effectively in Maryland’s climate?
To ensure cardboard or paper mulch remains effective and durable in Maryland’s climate, start by using thick, sturdy layers of material. Overlap the edges of the cardboard or paper to prevent weeds from growing through gaps. Moisture is key – water the mulch thoroughly after laying it down to help it settle and stay in place, especially during windy conditions.
For added longevity, cover the cardboard or paper with a thin layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw. This protects it from direct sunlight and heavy rain, which can cause it to break down too quickly. Regularly check the mulch for signs of wear and replenish as needed to maintain its effectiveness throughout the seasons.
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