From Weedy Mess to Native Garden Oasis

Story and photos by Jessica Calvillo.

"I want to start a native garden but my area is covered in lawn/weeds. What should I do?" This is a common question I get asked by many new gardeners. The issue of tackling a thick carpet of weeds or lawn grass can often seem like a barrier. Some people call it the "lasagna method" or more commonly, "sheet mulching." Like the typical mulching method, sheet mulching uses the same concept of suppressing weeds but takes it to the next level while also feeding the soil.

Steps: Mow your lawn or weeds low. Dig a 3-inch trench along the edges. Water the area. Lay down overlapping cardboard (6 inches overlap). Spread 2 inches of compost. Add 3 inches of mulch over the top. Water it all in, and cut holes to plant your natives!

In one of my previous gardens in Cupertino, the "lawn" was covered in 2 feet of weeds which I chopped down with my push mower and electric string trimmer. What was once all weeds became a lush butterfly haven with Lippia, Cleveland Sage, Common Yarrow, Farewell-to-Spring, California Poppy, Matilija Poppy, and California Fuchsia.