Use newspaper in your garden: the simple trick that blocks weeds and keeps soil moist
Old newspaper can save your garden — here’s how to use it for healthy plants
Got old newspapers lying around? They might be just what your garden needs. Gardeners have long used newspaper as a cheap and natural weed barrier — and it actually works.
By layering wet newspaper between the soil and a covering material like straw or sawdust, you can suppress weeds, retain moisture, and reduce how often you need to water.
It’s a beginner-friendly method that costs nothing, uses no chemicals, and improves your garden’s health over time. You just need to place it right.
According to this article published by Pravda.ru, this trick is especially useful for home gardeners trying to cut down on maintenance and chemicals.
What you need and how to do it
| Material | How to use | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Old newspaper | Place between soil and mulch | Blocks weeds |
| Water | Wet the paper thoroughly | Makes it stick and stay down |
| Straw or sawdust | Cover the newspaper | Protects and locks in moisture |
Common mistakes — and better options
- Mistake: using dry newspaper
Alternative: soak it with water and cover it lightly - Mistake: using plastic sheet
Alternative: use breathable organic mulch over newspaper
FAQ — does it really work?
- Will it work in clay soil? Yes — especially with straw on top
- What if it rains a lot? Wet newspaper adheres better and won’t blow away
- Do I need to remove it later? No — it decomposes and becomes compost
Fun fact: most modern newspapers use soy-based inks, which are biodegradable and safe for garden use. They break down in about 2 to 3 months.
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