I've really let my garden go this year, and now the weeds are so thick that it looks more like a lawn! Hand-pulling isn't an option right now because of some back issues, and using a hoe is tough too. I'm considering mowing everything down really low, then covering it with cardboard and mulching over the winter. I'd love to hear any better suggestions or experiences others might have had with this situation!
3 Answers
While cardboard definitely works for some weeds, it depends a lot on what type you're dealing with. For example, Bermuda grass can be a real pain; it often grows right through even cardboard. If you have problematic weeds, sometimes using glyphosate is the only way to go. I’ve had tough luck with nutsedge and Bermuda, and herbicides have helped a lot.
I totally feel you! I had back and knee issues too and did something similar in April. I covered the weeds with cardboard and then piled on a mix of wood shavings and manure. It worked wonders with very few weeds making it through! I'm using part of that area now for vining plants like squash while the soil gets back on track. Next year, I'm planning on adding about 6 inches of compost in rows and using a broadfork to aerate it – going for a no-dig approach!
Your plan sounds spot on! Mowing it down, putting down cardboard, and layering with 4 to 6 inches of chips is exactly what I would do too. Just be sure to keep it damp while decomposing!