Lasagna Gardening

Lasagna gardening is a layered approach to creating a garden bed that mimics the deliciousness of lasagna

To kick off your gardening journey, start by selecting a designated area in your yard (preferably a spot that gets plenty of sunshine). Gather organic materials such as cardboard or newspapers, grass clippings, kitchen scraps (like vegetable peels), dried leaves, straw, and compost. These components will help create a nutrient-rich environment for your plants while minimizing weed growth.

Once you've cleared the area, lay down a thick layer of cardboard or several sheets of newspaper to smother existing weeds. Next, start layering your organic materials like you would in an exquisite lasagna—begin with a layer of brown materials (like dried leaves or straw), then alternate with green materials (grass clippings or vegetable scraps). Aim for between 2:1 and 4:1 ratio of brown to green materials to keep the balance just right. As you continue stacking, alternate with layers of compost (manure can be added as a supplement only and not as the sole source of the greens) to provide sustenance for your future flora. Keep layering until you reach your desired height. At least 12” deep is a great start.

Now for the pièce de résistance: the finishing touch! Once your lasagna garden is built, give it a gentle watering to moisten the layers and activate the decomposition process. Cover the top with a final layer of mulch to retain moisture and set up the future protective layer for the plants. Allow the layers to break down over time—ideally a few months—before planting directly into the lasagna layers. Come planting time, dig small holes in the top layers, insert your seedlings or seeds, and watch as your garden grows like a well-fed tomato plant! Voilà, you’ve turned your garden space into a delectable lasagna of nutrients, just waiting for a hearty harvest!