How To Reuse Cardboard Boxes For Gardening

Finally, your move is over and you have successfully unpacked 100 moving boxes.

Now what? What do you do with all the empty boxes that are scattered all over your home? Do you recycle them, throw them out, or reuse them?

I personally recommend either recycling or reusing your cartons. This benefits our environment and helps prevent the negative effects that come from having excess cardboard in our landfills.

The great news is that if you are a gardener, there are some really fun ways to reuse your boxes at little to no cost. Upon reflection, cardboard is really a type of paper that comes from a natural substance. It will decompose naturally and release carbon into the soil. But using cardboard for garden upcycling has many additional advantages. It has several uses, including planters, the beginning of a garden path, mulching already-made beds, creating new beds, and more.

Is It Safe to Use Cardboard Boxes in the Garden?

Using cardboard boxes in your garden offers both benefits and potential drawbacks. The material decomposes naturally, adding organic matter to the soil and enriching it over time. This makes cardboard an eco-friendly option for various gardening tasks, from weed suppression to composting.

Pros:

• Weed Control: Cardboard acts as a barrier, blocking sunlight and preventing weed growth. This reduces the need for chemical herbicides.
• Soil Enrichment: As cardboard breaks down, it adds carbon to the soil, enhancing its structure and fertility. This process supports healthy plant growth.
• Cost-Effective: Reusing cardboard boxes saves money on gardening supplies and reduces waste, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Cons:

• Potential Contaminants: Some cardboard may contain adhesives, inks, or coatings that could introduce harmful substances to your garden. It’s best to use plain, uncoated cardboard and remove any tape or labels.
• Pest Attraction: Cardboard can attract pests like termites and rodents if not managed properly. Regular monitoring and maintenance can help mitigate this issue.
• Decomposition Time: Depending on environmental conditions, cardboard decomposition can take several months. This might require you to reapply layers or incorporate additional organic materials to maintain garden health.

Eliminate Weeds In Your Garden

Did you know that cardboard can actually help prevent weeds from resurfacing? This is an organic gardening trick that has been used successfully for decades.

1. All you have to do is lay the cardboard right on top of your weeds. (Do make sure that  all the packing tape has been removed.)

2. Place 2-3 inches of bark on top of the cardboard. That is it!

Since your weeds will not have sunlight to grow properly, your garden will require less maintenance and you will notice that your weeds do not grow back!

• Use larger pieces of cardboard for extensive areas to minimize gaps where weeds could emerge.
• Wet the cardboard before applying mulch to help it stay in place and speed up decomposition.
• For best results, reapply the mulch layer as it breaks down to maintain weed control throughout the season.

Create a Better Soil by Mulching

If you put cardboard in your garden and cover it with quality soil, the box material will decompose and create richer, more nutrient-rich soil than you had before.

Depending on what area you live in, (rain, moisture, sun, etc) this mulching process can take anywhere from 4-12 months for the boxes to disappear and to fully enrich the soil.

Cardboard will also kill the grass and make it easier to prepare a new bed for flowers, vegetables, or whatever else you wish to grow.

• To accelerate decomposition, water the cardboard thoroughly before covering it with soil and mulch.
• Consider adding compost or manure on top of the cardboard before applying soil to boost nutrient content.
• Monitor the decomposition process and add more cardboard layers as needed to maintain soil health and structure.

Use Your Boxes to Store Weeds

While you are weeding, use your used moving boxes to put your weeds into and then dump them into your compost with the box itself!

Cardboard boxes are a wonderful way to transport weeds without costing you a dime!

While weeding, use your moving boxes to collect weeds. This keeps your garden tidy and makes it easier to transport weeds to your compost pile. Cardboard boxes are perfect for this task, as they are sturdy, biodegradable, and free. Once filled, simply add the entire box to your compost bin. This method not only organizes your garden waste but also enriches your compost with additional carbon material from the cardboard.

• Keep a dedicated box for weed collection near your garden for easy access.
• Break down larger boxes into smaller pieces to fit them into your compost bin more efficiently.
• Mix the collected weeds with kitchen scraps and other compost materials to balance nitrogen and carbon ratios in your compost.

Cardboard Box Gardening

Instead of spending a lot of money buying pots, you can easily reuse your moving boxes to create a fantastic garden.

The cardboard gardening approach is ideal for the plants such as herbs that you use for cooking.

• Choose sturdy, undamaged boxes to ensure they last through the growing season.
• Reinforce the sides of the box with additional cardboard or duct tape if necessary to prevent collapse.
• Water your cardboard box garden regularly, but be mindful not to overwater as cardboard retains moisture well.

Grow Mushrooms in Your Boxes

At a company called “Mushroom Adventures” you can easily grow mushrooms using your moving boxes. Typically in 2-4 weeks, you will see fabulous mushrooms growing from the same boxes you moved with. What could be better than that?

• Place the mushroom kit in a cool, dark area for optimal growth.
• Mist the box regularly to maintain the necessary humidity levels for mushroom development.
• Harvest mushrooms as soon as they reach the desired size to encourage further growth.

Seed Starting

Starting seedlings in cardboard boxes is a sustainable and practical approach that benefits both your garden and the environment. Cardboard boxes offer a biodegradable solution that eliminates the need for plastic seed trays, reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly gardening practices. Plus, as the cardboard decomposes, it adds organic matter to the soil, enriching it naturally.

Here’s how to get started with cardboard seed starting:

• Prepare the Boxes: Cut your cardboard boxes into smaller sections that fit your seed-starting needs. Ensure they are clean and free from any labels or adhesives.
• Line the Boxes: Line the bottom of each section with a piece of newspaper to prevent soil from spilling out and to aid in water retention.
• Fill with Soil: Fill each section with a high-quality seed-starting mix. This provides the necessary nutrients and drainage for young seedlings.
• Sow the Seeds: Plant your seeds according to the package instructions. Lightly cover them with soil and water gently to settle the soil.
• Care for Seedlings: Place the boxes in a sunny location or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and watch as your seedlings grow.

Grow Sprouts

Sprouts are easy to grow in cardboard boxes, offering a nutritious addition to your meals. Order sprout seeds from a reputable supplier. Line the bottom of the box with plastic, poke drainage holes, and fill with potting soil. Scatter the seeds evenly, cover lightly with soil, and water gently. Ensure the box receives adequate sunlight. In just a few days, you’ll see sprouts emerging, packed with vitamins and minerals.

• Rotate the box daily to ensure even sunlight exposure for all sprouts.
• Use a spray bottle for gentle watering to avoid displacing seeds.
• Harvest sprouts when they reach 1-2 inches in height for the best flavor and nutritional value.

Grow Vegetables

If you live in an apartment and have a deck, you too can grow vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, and broccoli in cardboard containers. Since they are being grown in a box which helps to retain moisture, they will need less watering and are easier to maintain.

• Choose compact or dwarf varieties of vegetables for better results in small spaces.
• Place the boxes in a sunny location, ensuring they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Fertilize regularly with organic compost or a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth.

NOTE: To decide which vegetable to grow, make sure to check which ones thrive in the area you live in.

Make a Composter

Why buy soil at the store when you can make your own nutrient-rich soil using your cardboard boxes?

Simply dig a hole in your compost area, put the cardboard boxes down and layer them with weeds, leaves, clippings and even coffee grinds.

VOILA, you have a compost started and have successfully found a good use for your old moving boxes!

• Shred the cardboard into smaller pieces to speed up the decomposition process.
• Alternate layers of cardboard with green materials (e.g., vegetable scraps, grass clippings) for a balanced compost pile.
• Turn the compost regularly to aerate it and promote faster decomposition.

Path Creation with Cardboard

Using cardboard as a base for garden paths is a smart way to repurpose your moving boxes. This method not only creates a budget-friendly walkway but also helps suppress weeds, saving you time and effort on maintenance. Here’s how to make your garden path using cardboard:

• Prepare the Area: Clear the path area of any debris and ensure the ground is relatively even. Lay out the cardboard, overlapping pieces to avoid gaps where weeds could emerge.
• Top with Mulch or Gravel: Once the cardboard is in place, cover it with 2-3 inches of mulch or gravel. This top layer will weigh down the cardboard, helping it stay in place, and will also add a finished look to your garden path.
• Wet the Cardboard: Moistening the cardboard before adding mulch or gravel helps it decompose faster and adhere better to the ground.
• Layering: For additional durability, you can add multiple layers of cardboard.
• Maintenance: Periodically add more mulch or gravel as the cardboard breaks down to maintain the path’s appearance and effectiveness.

Tips On How To Grow Plants in a Cardboard Box

If you are growing anything in a box, simply line the bottom of the box with plastic and make sure you have a few holes to help drain the water. Add good quality soil and compost and plant anything that you want. It is that easy!

• Use a lightweight plastic liner to prevent the cardboard from breaking down too quickly.
• Choose soil with good drainage properties to prevent waterlogging.
• Add a layer of mulch on top of the soil to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature stable.

Innovative Uses for Cardboard in Urban Gardening

Cardboard boxes can be incredibly versatile in urban gardening. Whether you’re working with a tiny balcony, a small patio, or even a rooftop, cardboard can help you maximize your green space creatively and efficiently. Let’s dive into some innovative ways you can use cardboard to enhance your urban gardening efforts.

Vertical Gardens with Cardboard

Transform your walls into lush vertical gardens using cardboard as a base. This is perfect for urban dwellers with limited horizontal space. Here’s how you can get started:

• Layering: Start by attaching a sturdy piece of cardboard to a wooden or metal frame. This will act as the backing for your plants.
• Pocket Creation: Create pockets by folding smaller pieces of cardboard and securing them to the base. These pockets will hold soil and plants.
• Plant Selection: Choose lightweight plants like herbs, succulents, or small flowers that don’t require deep roots.
• Waterproofing: Line the pockets with a plastic sheet to prevent the cardboard from decomposing too quickly. Ensure there are small drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.

Balcony Planters

If you have a balcony, you can repurpose cardboard boxes into planters. This is an easy and cost-effective way to add greenery to your space without buying expensive pots. Here’s a simple method:

• Box Preparation: Choose sturdy boxes and reinforce the corners with duct tape to increase their durability.
• Lining: Line the inside of the box with a plastic sheet to make it waterproof. Poke a few holes in the bottom for drainage.
• Soil and Planting: Fill the box with a mix of soil and compost, and plant your favorite balcony-friendly plants like cherry tomatoes, strawberries, or herbs.

Small-Space Solutions: Cardboard Raised Beds

For those with a bit more space, like a rooftop or a small yard, cardboard raised beds are a great option. They are easy to set up and help create a defined growing area. Follow these steps to make your own:

• Foundation: Lay down a thick layer of cardboard directly on the ground where you want your raised bed. This will suppress weeds and start decomposing to enrich the soil.
• Frame Construction: Build a simple frame around the cardboard using wooden planks or even more cardboard reinforced with duct tape.
• Filling: Fill the frame with layers of compost, soil, and mulch. This creates a rich growing medium for your plants.
• Planting: Plant a variety of vegetables, herbs, or flowers. Raised beds are particularly good for root vegetables like carrots and beets, which benefit from the loose, nutrient-rich soil.

Cardboard Gardening for Different Climates

Gardening with cardboard can be effective in various climates, but understanding how to adapt your methods based on local conditions is key to maximizing benefits. Let’s explore some strategies for different climates:

• Cold Climates: In colder regions, using cardboard as mulch can help insulate the soil, protecting plant roots from freezing temperatures. To enhance this effect, place a thick layer of straw or leaves over the cardboard. This additional layer acts as extra insulation, ensuring your plants stay warm and your soil retains moisture despite the cold.

• Hot and Dry Climates: In hot and dry areas, cardboard helps retain soil moisture by reducing evaporation. Lay the cardboard directly on the soil and cover it with a layer of mulch to keep it from blowing away and to further prevent water loss. Regularly check the soil moisture levels, as cardboard alone might not provide sufficient protection against extreme heat.

• Rainy Climates: In regions with heavy rainfall, cardboard can prevent soil erosion and suppress weeds. However, it’s important to anchor the cardboard securely to prevent it from washing away. You can do this by placing rocks or heavy mulch on top. Additionally, ensure proper drainage by poking small holes in the cardboard to avoid waterlogging your plants.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Cardboard in the Garden

Reusing cardboard in your garden can be highly beneficial, but there are some common mistakes that gardeners often make. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your cardboard gardening projects are successful.

Using Contaminated Cardboard

One of the biggest mistakes is using cardboard that contains harmful substances. Cardboard often has adhesives, inks, or coatings that can introduce toxins into your soil. To avoid this, always use plain, uncoated cardboard. Remove any tape, labels, or staples before incorporating the cardboard into your garden. Opt for cardboard that is free from glossy finishes or colored printing to keep your garden safe and healthy.

Incorrect Application for Weed Control

Improper application of cardboard for weed control can lead to disappointing results. Simply laying cardboard on top of weeds without adequate coverage or weight can allow weeds to poke through. For effective weed suppression, follow these steps:

• Overlap cardboard pieces to eliminate gaps where weeds can grow.
• Wet the cardboard before applying mulch to help it stay in place and speed up decomposition.
• Use a thick layer of mulch (2-3 inches) on top of the cardboard to block sunlight completely.

Attracting Pests

Cardboard can attract pests like termites and rodents if not managed properly. To avoid this, monitor the cardboard regularly and take preventive measures:

• Elevate cardboard beds slightly to discourage pests from nesting.
• Avoid placing cardboard too close to your home or wooden structures to reduce the risk of termite infestation.
• Regularly check for signs of pests and act quickly to address any issues.

Did You Know?

Cardboard as a Moisture Barrier: Cardboard can be used to retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. By placing cardboard under mulch, it helps keep the soil moist and reduces evaporation, which is especially beneficial in dry climates or during drought periods.

Natural Pest Control: Cardboard attracts beneficial insects like earthworms, which help aerate the soil and enhance its fertility. As the cardboard breaks down, it provides a habitat for these insects, promoting a healthier garden ecosystem and reducing the need for chemical pest control.

pH Balance Improvement: Using cardboard in your garden can help balance soil pH levels. Cardboard made from recycled materials often has a neutral pH, which can counteract overly acidic or alkaline soils, promoting better nutrient absorption for plants.

Conclusion

Reusing cardboard boxes in your garden offers practical and eco-friendly benefits. Cardboard enhances soil moisture retention, reduces the need for frequent watering, and attracts beneficial insects like earthworms. It also helps balance soil pH levels, promoting healthier plant growth.

By incorporating cardboard into various gardening tasks, you can reduce waste, save money, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.