Q. on Shredded Newspaper Mulch

Jamesuschafer · May 7, 2011

I am looking to shred some of my newspapers to use as mulch this year for weed control on my tomato patch. I have used leaves and other matter in the past.

Should I be concerned about color and black newspaper inks leaching into the soil and affecting the health and production of my tomato plants? Am I better off not doing this?

Appreciate any advice from fellow Tomatovillians.

Thanks!
Jim

bboomer · May 7, 2011

I lay down a thick layer of newspapers and then cover that with wood chips or bark. No weeds come up and at the end of the season the papers are ready to be turned over in the soil. Works like a charm.
I hear most newspaper ink is non toxic these days.

May 7, 2011	#1
Jamesuschafer Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 2	Q. on Shredded Newspaper Mulch I am looking to shred some of my newspapers to use as mulch this year for weed control on my tomato patch. I have used leaves and other matter in the past. Should I be concerned about color and black newspaper inks leaching into the soil and affecting the health and production of my tomato plants? Am I better off not doing this? Appreciate any advice from fellow Tomatovillians. Thanks! Jim

May 7, 2011	#2
bboomer Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 67	I lay down a thick layer of newspapers and then cover that with wood chips or bark. No weeds come up and at the end of the season the papers are ready to be turned over in the soil. Works like a charm. I hear most newspaper ink is non toxic these days.