Unlock Garden Potential: The Layered "Lasagna Method" for Raised Beds

Gardening Hack: The "Lasagna Method" for Thriving Raised Beds A recent online video by gardening enthusiast Sophia | Your Garden Bestie demonstrates an innovative and cost-effective technique for filling raised garden beds, known as the "lasagna method" or sheet composting. This no-dig approach utilizes layered organic materials to create nutrient-rich soil over time, reducing the need for expensive soil mixes. According to the video, the process involves alternating layers of "browns" and "greens." Brown materials, which are carbon-rich, include cardboard (serving as a weed barrier) and shredded leaves. Other suitable browns mentioned are straw, hay, sawdust, pine needles, and shredded paper. Green materials, rich in nitrogen, consist of garden trimmings, grass clippings, fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and aged manure. After layering these organic components, a final layer of soil is added on top. The presenter emphasizes the importance of watering down the layers to help them settle and begin the decomposition process. Ideally, this method is started in the fall, allowing the layers to break down over winter, resulting in rich, dark soil by spring. The video concludes with the successful planting of patty pan squash in the newly prepared beds, showcasing the immediate usability of the method. This technique offers a sustainable way to build healthy garden soil while repurposing organic waste.

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One gardener shared the basics of the lasagna method in a TikTok video.