People urged to put cardboard in gardens before winter

Typically, gardening enthusiasts don't need to spend as much time outdoors during the winter. This is because plants become dormant in the cold or grow much more slowly. As a result of this, you won't need to do as much weeding, pruning or deadheading.

It's beneficial to let your soil rest in the colder months, as well as doing the majority of planting in spring. However, that doesn't mean all of your work is done. In fact, you should consider using the cardboard method in recent weeks.

Green-fingered content creator Amy May posted about the technique on YouTube, where she outlined why everyone should consider putting cardboard in their gardens for winter prep.

So why is this and how does it work? Here's everything you need to know...

What is the cardboard method?

The cardboard method, also known as sheet mulching, is an organic gardening technique used to suppress weeds, improve soil health, and prepare new planting areas without digging.

It mimics natural processes by layering organic materials to create rich, fertile soil.

Not only should it help to suppress weeds as it blocks sunlight, it also breaks down to enrich the ground it is placed on.

As previously mentioned, it is beneficial not to disturb the soil too much during winter. For this reason, the "no-dig" cardboard method can be a lot less disruptive to your garden.

So ultimately, cardboard sheet mulching is a sustainable, low-cost way to suppress weeds, improve soil health, conserve water, and recycle materials in your garden.

How to do the cardboard method

1. Prepare the area - mow any tall weeds and grass, as well as removing obstructive debris, rocks or tree stumps

2. Lay down the cardboard - you can re-use old cardboard packaging, but make sure to remove any tape, staples or unnatural glossy labels before placing the plain, brown cardboard down. Overlap the edges by around four inches and make sure the material is wet to help it begin breaking down

3. Add organic layers - pop some compost, leaves or grass clippings on top of the cardboard. Then, sprinkle over a layer of mulch to keep it all in place

4. Leave the cardboard to do its thing - apply the sheet mulching before winter begins and let it break down in the coming months. You can water the layers to aid decomposition before spring planting season arrives.