Sheet composting (lasanga gardening)

What is the Sheet composting?

Sheet composting, also known as lasagna gardening, is a method of composting and creating a new garden bed by layering organic materials directly on top of the soil surface. It is a simple and effective way to build fertile soil and prepare a planting area without the need for extensive digging or tilling. This approach mimics the natural process of decomposition, allowing the materials to break down over time and enrich the soil.

Here's how you can implement sheet composting or lasagna gardening:

1. **Choose a Location:** Select a suitable spot for your new garden bed. It could be on bare ground or even on top of existing grass or weeds.

2. **Gather Materials:** Collect a variety of organic materials for layering. This can include kitchen scraps, leaves, grass clippings, straw, cardboard, newspaper, shredded paper, compost, manure, and any other plant-based materials.

3. **Prepare the Area:** If the site has existing vegetation, you can mow or trim it down to ground level. There's no need to remove it completely; it will break down as part of the sheet composting process.

4. **Start Layering:** Begin the layering process by placing a thick layer (about 4-6 inches) of nitrogen-rich green materials like kitchen scraps, fresh grass clippings, or manure. This provides a good source of nitrogen for the composting process.

5. **Add a Layer of Carbon:** Follow the nitrogen layer with a 2-4 inch layer of carbon-rich materials such as dried leaves, straw, shredded paper, or cardboard. The carbon balances the nitrogen and helps create the right conditions for decomposition.

6. **Alternate Layers:** Continue to alternate between green and brown layers until the garden bed reaches the desired height (usually around 18 inches). Water each layer as you go to keep the materials moist, which aids in the decomposition process.

7. **Top It Off:** Finish the lasagna garden with a layer of compost or soil on top. This helps provide beneficial microorganisms that aid in the decomposition process and ensures that weed seeds from the existing soil don't sprout.

8. **Mulch and Let It Decompose:** After completing the layers, you can add a layer of mulch (such as straw or wood chips) to retain moisture and further aid in the decomposition process. Over time, the organic materials will break down and transform into rich, nutrient-dense soil.

The sheet composting method typically takes several months to a year to fully decompose and create a ready-to-plant garden bed. It's a low-maintenance approach that benefits the soil and encourages beneficial soil organisms.

Lasagna gardening or sheet composting is particularly useful in areas with poor soil or for creating new planting areas without disturbing the existing soil structure. It's a great way to recycle organic waste and build fertile soil for your plants.