How to Mulch a Garden Using Newspapers and Cocoa Shells

Mulch is an important material to use when gardening. Mulch can prevent or slow down weed growth and help soil retain moisture to keep the plants from dehydrating. there are different types of mulch to use, some of them more effective than others. There are different ways of mulching, one can mulch using recyclable materials to help the environment and to save money. By using newspapers and cocoa shells, you not only help your garden grow but also keeps the garden smelling good and sustainable.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Old newspapers
• Cocoa shells
• Bucket
• Hand fork or Rake

1. Collect old newspapers.

2. Purchase cocoa shells from garden stores or from cocoa factories.

3. Plant flowers, herbs, trees and any type of plants in your planting bed. Water them and the surrounding soils.

4. Tear newspapers in smaller strips around 5 inches wide.

5. Lay down the newspaper strips on the soil of your planting bed. Don't leave spaces to prevent weeds from growing.

6. Pour your cocoa shells on top of the newspapers using buckets.

7. Spread using a hand gardening fork or rake. Ensure that the newspapers are completely covered.

[boatst]

on 4/15/2009 I've used newpaper for years as mulch but not cocoa shells. Great and they keep the wind from blowing the newpaper. Thanks

[favefive]

on 9/8/2008 I would like to use cocoa shells, I heard they smell realy nice. Excellent article!