Country Lore: Shredded Paper Mulch

I use shredded paper mulch in my garden. It keeps the ground cool and smothers weeds. After the shreds have been laid down and watered, they form a blanket similar to papier-mâché. Water still gets through, but the weeds can’t. Potatoes and peppers love it. I think the hot peppers get hotter because of the reflective nature of the paper.

Sarah Germeroth
Hollenberg, Kansas