Fall is a great time to create new garden beds and get a jump on spring. The technique used in this project is called layering, and the best part is that there's no digging. Once you find a spot with good sun exposure and drainage, you're ready to prepare the ground for a new planting bed.
1. Put a thick layer of cardboard or newspaper directly onto the grass over the entire surface of the new garden area. If using newspaper, 10 to 15 sheets is adequate. (Do not use the glossy pages; they won't break down.) This smothers weeds and sod, and all the decaying matter will form the foundation of your spring bed.
2. Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of garden soil on top of the cardboard or newspaper. This weighs down the paper and supplies the microorganisms that will break down the paper in the coming months.
3. Spread fallen leaves, grass clippings or other organic materials on top of the soil.
4. Lightly water it to hold down the paper and start the decomposing process.
5. Keep the area damp until the ground freezes.
Come spring, the paper will have decomposed and the grass will have died back. You can simply work up the soil and add organic material to it. After that, you're ready for planting.
