By Scout Nelson
Gardeners can prepare for the next growing season even after temperatures begin to drop and outdoor gardening activities slow down. One useful method is lasagna gardening, also known as sheet mulching. This technique helps create new garden beds or improve existing soil by layering organic materials without digging or tilling.
Kelsey Deckert, a horticulture agent from North Dakota State University Extension, Burleigh County, highlighted lasagna gardening as a simple way to prepare garden beds for the future. The method uses natural materials that are often available at little or no cost. It also helps improve soil, retain water, control weeds, and reduce the need for chemicals.
What Is Lasagna Gardening?
Lasagna gardening is a layering method that works like cold composting. Different organic materials are placed on top of each other to break down over several months. The process creates nutrient-rich soil that supports healthy plant growth.
Gardeners can use this method to expand their growing space or improve poor garden soil. It also reduces the need for heavy digging and tilling. However, the process requires patience because the layers need time to break down before planting.
How to Prepare a Lasagna Garden Bed
First, select a level area that receives full sunlight. This location will serve as the base for the garden bed.
Cover the ground with cardboard or newspaper to block sunlight and prevent existing grass and weeds from growing. Avoid using heavily colored or glossy printed boxes. Remove all tape and staples before placing the material on the ground. Water the first layer thoroughly.
Next, add alternating brown and green organic materials.
Brown Layers: These materials provide carbon and include dry leaves, small branches, straws, newspapers, sawdust, cornstalks, and wood chips. Spread a layer about 2 to 4 inches thick. Add a small amount of soil to introduce microorganisms that help break down the materials.
Green Layers: These materials provide nitrogen and include grass clippings, fruit and vegetable scraps, well-rotted manure, coffee grounds, and plant materials. Apply a layer about 1 to 2 inches thick. Add another light layer of soil.
Make sure grass clippings, straw, and manure do not contain harmful herbicide residues.
Building and Maintaining the Layers
Continue adding brown and green materials until the pile reaches approximately 24 to 36 inches in height. Maintain a ratio of two parts brown material to one-part green material.
Water the layers occasionally, especially when winter moisture is limited. Keep the pile moist but avoid making it too wet.
After several months of decomposition, the materials settle and form a garden bed approximately 6 inches deep. The finished bed is ready for future gardening activities.
Get Ready for the Next Gardening Season
Lasagna gardening provides a simple and natural way to improve garden soil while making use of everyday organic materials. Gardeners interested in learning more can contact their local NDSU Extension agent or visit the NDSU Extension county offices website for additional guidance.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-johnbraid
Categories: North Dakota, General