Introduction to No-Dig Gardening

What is No-Dig Gardening?

No-dig gardening (sometimes called sheet mulching or the lasagne method) creates productive growing beds by layering organic materials on top of existing ground — even over grass or weeds — without any digging. The layers decompose over weeks, creating excellent soil structure while smothering whatever was below.

The Method

Water the area thoroughly. Lay cardboard (or several layers of newspaper) over the entire area — overlap pieces by 20cm. Water the cardboard. Apply a 5cm layer of compost, then 5cm of aged manure, then 5cm of compost again. Top with 5–10cm of quality garden soil or potting mix. Plant through the layers immediately (for transplants) or wait 4–6 weeks for direct sowing as layers begin to break down.

Benefits

No backbreaking digging. Weed seeds in existing soil are not disturbed and brought to the surface. Soil structure and biology below the layers is completely undisturbed. The layered organic matter creates extraordinarily fertile conditions within one growing season.