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Lawn to Landscape with Sheet Mulch

Sheet mulching is a zero waste way to convert turf areas of any size to water-saving landscapes adapted to California's dry summer climate. 

Sheet mulching is basically a layered mulch system. First you place a biodegradable weed barrier such as recycled cardboard on top of mowed or flattened weeds or grass. Then you layer compost and mulch on top of the cardboard. You can plant trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals right through the sheet mulch. 

Compared to conventional methods of turf removal, every acre of turf that is sheet mulched keeps 85 tons of sod out of the landfill, or prevents the use of 10 pounds of herbicides. 
 

NEW! A Comprehensive Guide to the Sheet Mulch Process

Get details about sheet mulching at the Lawn to Garden website, including:

  • Training and resources for landscape professionals
  • Directory of Bay Area sources for bulk compost, mulch and sheet mulch materials
  • How to sheet mulch info for residents and landscape professionals

Spotlight on Lawn Conversion

Alameda HOA Responds to Drought with Lawn-Free Landscape

The Casitas Alameda Homeowners Association, a community of more than 400 homes, used sheet mulch to replace a large swath of lawn with colorful, climate-appropriate plants. The new landscape is expected to use two-thirds less water than the lawn.

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