The Cool Down
Gardener shares incredible hack using old cardboard boxes: 'It's budget-friendl…
One TikToker showed how you can use old cardboard boxes to improve your garden's soil and block weeds — all for free.
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Cardboard Revolutionizes Weed Control: A Free and Eco-Friendly Garden Hack
Gardening Enthusiasts Discover Eco-Friendly Weed Control SolutionA recent viral video has highlighted an innovative and sustainable method for managing garden weeds, captivating a significant audience of home gardeners and environmental advocates. The technique, demonstrated by DIY enthusiast Ali Long, involves repurposing used cardboard boxes as a natural and effective weed barrier. This approach offers a compelling alternative to traditional chemical herbicides and expensive landscaping fabrics.Long's video illustrates a simple five-step process: first, existing weeds are trimmed low; then, overlapping sheets of cardboard are laid over the garden bed, ensuring no gaps for weeds to penetrate. Following this, the cardboard is thoroughly watered to help it conform to the soil, and finally, a layer of mulch, straw, or compost is applied on top. For planting, small holes are cut into the cardboard. "It blocks weeds, enriches the soil as it breaks down, and it’s budget-friendly," Long explained in her video description, emphasizing the dual benefits of weed suppression and soil improvement. She also noted that the decomposing cardboard attracts earthworms, further enhancing soil health, and advised removing tape from boxes prior to use.This method is gaining traction for its practicality and environmental benefits, offering a zero-cost solution for those with readily available cardboard. Experts suggest that such organic methods contribute to healthier garden ecosystems and reduce environmental impact. The video has garnered substantial attention, indicating a growing public interest in sustainable home and garden practices.
