Can I use old newspapers to put down in a flower bed instead of a weed/grass killing net?
Answers:
I use newspaper in large areas to save $$$$ on the landscape fabric. Use 5 sheets, preferably just the black and white print, no colors. You'll need a bucket of water, also. Dampen the newspaper in the water and lay it out on the ground. Cover with the mulch of your choice.
Other answers:
I think trash bags work
I think trash bags work
yes, but they might let some light through and would not be as effective at retaining moisture.
Yeah, but it's a hassle. And they blow away! You have to cover them with mulch or gravel to make it work. I've done it and I prefer landscape fabric covered with a thin mulch layer to disguise it.
Old newspapers are great as a mulch and as eventual compost, but they only do so much for weed killing. It can starve them of light, but if the roots survive, or if they are rhizomatus or bulbous weeds, they will just come right back. Depends on the weeds, but it certainly cant hurt to try. Worse case scenario, you thin them out some. Be careful however about how thick and wet you make it. You don't want to start growing new molds and fungi.
Hope this helps.
yes
You lay down 4 sheets of newspaper, wet it with your garden hose to keep it down and spread wood mulch on top of that...works great! And it will eventually decompose...no problem...but use only the black & white print, not the color ads. I use it in ALL my garden beds...
yes you can..i just lay the newspapers down without shredding them..strategically place few rocks here and there to keep them from blowing away...also use several layers..you will have to experiment to find out how many layers you need...i use about 5-7 layers then mulch or if it is against the house 5-7 layers then some rocks..hubby wont allow mulch close to house because mulch can draw termites.
newspaper might not look pretty but it does the job and if you are like me have a never ending supply of the stuff..lol