Why I Ditched the Plastic: Cardboard, Mulch, and a Whole Lot Less Stress

Let’s talk about something I see way too often: plastic weed barriers. You know the kind — those rolls of black mesh or plastic that promise to keep your garden weed-free for life. Spoiler alert: they lie.

The truth is, those plastic weed barriers are more trouble than they’re worth. They might block weeds for one season, but by next year? Weeds are growing on top of the plastic, your soil underneath is starving for air and nutrients, and removing that stuff is like wrestling a cranky snake out of your flower bed. No thank you. 

That’s why I’ve become a big ol’ fan of cardboard and mulch. Not only are they cheaper (read: free), but they’re actually good for your soil. The cardboard breaks down over time, feeding the earth as it composts. The mulch holds moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps everything looking tidy while nourishing your plants. It’s nature’s version of a cozy blanket — practical and pretty.

Last month, I worked with a sweet friend whose vegetable garden had been completely taken over by nut grass. She was overwhelmed and couldn’t keep up with it anymore — it had gone from peaceful to panic-inducing. So, we got to work using my no-plastic, low-stress method.

First, we dug up as many weeds as we could. For the stubborn ones (not too close to her veggies), I sprayed them with vinegar — a natural, chemical-free weed killer. Then we covered the ground with a solid layer of cardboard boxes, followed by a thick, fluffy layer of fresh mulch.

Suddenly, that garden went from chaos to calm. It was manageable again. And better yet? It was free. Yep — I picked up cardboard boxes from local stores (they’re usually thrilled to get rid of them), and I got a whole truckload of mulch from a tree company that contracts with the electric company. They’re always trimming trees off the power lines and looking for places to dump the fresh, untreated mulch — no dyes, no chemicals, just clean, compostable wood chips.

So if you’re out here fighting your garden instead of enjoying it, maybe it’s time to ditch the plastic and go the natural route. Your soil will thank you, your plants will thrive, and you’ll actually enjoy being out there again.

Let’s grow smart, grow natural, and keep it peaceful.

Stay muddy,
Bailey