Killing grass naturally without the use of harmful chemicals is an eco-friendly way to remove unwanted grass from your lawn or garden. One effective method is using newspapers, as the ink and paper contain compounds that can help suppress grass growth. With some strategic planning and proper technique, newspapers can be an inexpensive, non-toxic grass killer that provides satisfactory results.

Why Use Newspapers to Kill Grass

Newspapers are easily accessible and provide a chemical-free alternative for controlling grass growth. Here are some of the benefits of using newspaper as a natural grass killer:

Cost-effective – Newspapers are very affordable, especially if you have access to old ones that are ready for recycling. This can significantly lower costs compared to commercial weed killers.
Eco-friendly – No harmful toxins or chemicals are introduced into the environment. Newspapers break down naturally over time.
Efficient – The ink, oils, and lignin in newspapers block sunlight and smother grass effectively. Results are visible usually within 1-2 weeks.
Accessible – Newspapers are widely available and can be sourced for free or cheap. No special equipment is needed to apply them.
Versatile – Newspapers can be used to kill all types of grass and weeds. They also suppress new growth.
Biodegradable – After killing grass, newspapers decompose back into the soil. No cleanup is required later.

For those seeking to inhibit grass growth using non-toxic household items, newspapers are the way to go. The process is fairly straightforward but proper technique is key for best results.

When to Apply Newspaper for Killing Grass

Spring and fall are ideal times to use newspaper as a grass killer. During the warm season, the newspaper layers will heat up and dry out the grass underneath. In cooler weather, the light obstruction and smothering effects take hold more quickly.

Avoid rainy periods where newspapers can become soggy and less effective. For active grass growth, allow 2-3 weeks after newspaper application to see best results.

For pre-emergent weed control, apply newspapers over soil before weeds have sprouted, blocking light to prevent future growth. Overwinter applications for early spring are recommended.

How to Prepare the Area for Newspaper Application

Here are some tips on preparing the area where you wish to kill grass or weeds using newspapers:

Remove any dead grass clumps or debris so the newspaper can have direct contact with the soil.
Rake the area smooth and lightly water 1-2 days before application. Moist soil aids decomposition.
Mow the grass one last time on the lowest setting. Short grass is easier to smother than tall grass.
Define the area with an edging material (e.g. plastic, metal strips) to prevent spread later.
For best effects, layer down newspaper when grass and weeds are actively growing. Avoid dormant seasons.
Plan application for a calm day. Windy conditions can cause newspaper to shift and scatter.

Proper preparation sets up the area for effective treatment using the newspaper layers. This saves time later by avoiding incomplete grass suppression.

How Many Layers of Newspaper to Kill Grass

Applying 3-4 layers of newspaper is recommended to kill existing grass and weeds. The multiple sheets block sunlight, deprive growth, and smother effectively.

For pre-emergent control before weeds sprout, 2 layers of newspaper are typically sufficient since there is no established growth to kill yet.

Some tips when layering newspapers:

Overlap edges by 6-12 inches to prevent light gaps. Grass can grow up through exposed areas.
Water each layer to keep it weighed down. Let soak in before adding more layers.
Add a final layer and let sit for 1-2 weeks without disturbing for best results.
For thicker grass, increase newspaper layers up to 6-8 total. The more layers, the better when killing established growth.

Monitor grass weekly and re-apply newspaper on any exposed or thinly covered spots. Maintaining proper coverage thickness is key.

How to Apply Newspaper for Killing Grass

Follow these steps to properly use newspaper as an effective grass and weed killer:

Supplies Needed:

Old newspapers
Water source (hose or watering can)
Weights (e.g. rocks, landscape staples, bricks)
Rake
Wheelbarrow or tarp (for transporting newspapers)

Process:

Mow grass on the shortest setting and rake area smooth.
Lightly water area 1-2 days before application if soil is dry.
Layer first sheet of opened newspaper over treatment area. Wet thoroughly.
Place second sheet in opposite direction, overlapping edges by 6-12 inches.
Continue layering newspapers, watering each layer well before adding the next.
Use bricks, rocks or landscape staples as needed to hold layers in place.
Apply final layer and allow to sit undisturbed for 1-2 weeks.
Check for uncovered areas and re-apply layers as needed for full coverage.
Leave treatment alone for 2-6 weeks for grass to die off fully.
Once dead, grass remnants can be raked up and discarded.

Applying newspaper properly takes some patience and care to ensure an effective grass-killing treatment. But the non-toxic method is better for the environment compared to chemical solutions.

Improving Efficacy of Newspaper Weed Killer

Here are some tips for getting the best results when using newspaper as an all-natural grass and weed killer:

Opt for black & white newspapers – the darker ink is believed to be more suppressive. Avoid glossy prints.
Prior to application, mow grass short and water area well to boost treatment effectiveness.
On inclines, lay newspaper layers horizontally across slope to prevent slippage.
For quicker grass death, wet newspapers lightly with full-strength white vinegar for added acidity.
Weigh down edges well with bricks or lawn staples to prevent wind lift or gaps.
Overlap well and add more layers (up to 8) for thicker, established grasses and weeds.
Keep treatment moist, not soggy. Re-wet newspapers if they dry out.
Reapply to any thin spots for full coverage. No light should reach through to plants below.
Give 2-3 weeks after application for best results before removing dead grass remnants.

With strategic preparation and proper technique, newspapers can reliably kill overgrowth. The natural method helps avoid chemical use in the home and garden.

Common Mistakes When Using Newspaper as Weed Killer

Proper technique with newspapers is important to successfully kill weeds and grass. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not overlapping edges enough – Gaps allow light through and grass can grow between newspaper layers.
Skipping watering – Dry newspapers blow away. Keeping layers moist aids decomposition.
Leaving dead grass under newspapers – Remnants block contact and reduce effectiveness over time.
Applying in windy weather – Air flow scatters newspaper and prevents proper coverage.
Applying over mature, established weeds – More difficult to smother than young growth. Better results on smaller weeds.
Letting newspaper dry out – Re-wet occasionally to keep moist. Dry layers lose contact with soil.
Removing too soon – Wait the recommended 2-3 weeks for best plant death before clearing out.
Improper storage – Newspapers for garden use should be kept dry. Wet stacks will compost.

With care taken to avoid these common errors, newspaper weed management can be simple, effective, and environmentally friendly.

Alternatives and Supplements to Newspaper for Weed Control

While newspaper is an eco-friendly option, here are some other potential natural materials to kill weeds and grass:

Cardboard – Corrugated cardboard also blocks light effectively. Shredded cardboard can suffocate growth too.
Vinegar – Higher acidity stresses plants. Use horticultural vinegar for strongest effects.
Mulches – Natural mulches like wood chips, leaves, straw can inhibit weed growth when applied thickly.
Landscape fabric – Light-blocking synthetic barriers prevent photosynthesis and smother plants.
Corn gluten meal – Organic pre-emergent; prevents seeds from sprouting when applied early.
Salt water – Salty spray damages plants through desiccation; best for gravel and pavement weeds.
Boiling water – High heat kills weeds instantly; useful for cracks and small areas in paving.

Even with alternatives, newspapers remain one of the simplest, affordable ways to manage weeds and grass naturally. Combine with other eco-methods like mulching for added effect as part of your overall garden maintenance plan.

Using Other Natural Methods with Newspaper Weed Control

Boost the weed-fighting power of newspapers by combining with these other eco-friendly techniques:

1. Mulching on top of newspaper

Applying 2-3 inches of organic mulch over newspaper layers provides added weed suppression while also feeding the soil as the papers break down slowly.

2. Solarization before applying newspapers

Covering treatment areas with clear plastic for several hot sunny weeks helps weaken and kill weeds through heat before newspaper application.

3. Adding vinegar to newspaper layers

Spraying newspaper layers lightly with horticultural vinegar adds acidity to further stress and destroy weeds.

4. Planting native groundcovers

Once newspaper treatment is complete, planting competitive groundcovers prevents future weed regrowth in the area.

5. Overwintering for spring weed prep

Blanketing garden beds with newspaper layers in fall smothers early spring weeds before they sprout.

6. Sheet mulching with newspapers

Layering newspapers and organic matter builds healthy soil while killing existing grass and weeds prior to planting beds.

Using newspapers alone provides effective eco-friendly weed control, but combining other organic methods can boost results even further with minimal added effort.

Troubleshooting Newspaper Weed Treatment Issues

Having problems with your newspaper weed management? Here are some quick troubleshooting tips:

Weeds growing through newspaper layers

Overlap edges better to eliminate gaps
Use more layers (up to 8) to improve coverage
Ensure newspapers are weighed down fully and edges are secured

Newspapers drying out

Re-wet newspaper layers before they dry and lose contact with soil
Mist occasionally with water to maintain moisture

Weeds still thriving weeks after treatment

May need longer treatment time for established weeds (4-6 weeks)
Add supplemental layers and weigh down any lifted edges
Increase total number of newspaper layers

Significant rainfall flooded treatment area

Once flooding recedes, check for retainment of newspaper layers
Reapply additional layers over any lost pieces and weigh down

Severe winds displaced newspapers

Retrieve, straighten, and replace any shifted pieces
Improve weighting system with more rocks, staples, etc. along all edges

Grass growing back in treated area later

Normal for some regrowth eventually as newspaper breaks down
Re-apply newspaper treatment periodically as needed

With proper troubleshooting, newspapers remain an effective and environmentally safe grass and weed control option. Persistence and care with application is key to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of newspaper works best as a weed barrier?

Standard black and white newsprint provides the most effective weed suppression. Avoid using glossy paper with colored inks, as it decomposes too quickly.

Is it better to use newspaper sheets or shredded newspaper?

Intact newspaper sheets are recommended, as they block light more completely. Shredded newspaper can also work but requires a thicker application for the same effect.

Can I use newspaper under mulch or wood chips?

Yes, newspaper is great as a weed barrier before applying mulch or other decorative toppings. The layers will smother weeds while the mulch helps hold it in place.

How long does it take for newspaper to break down naturally?

Most newsprint paper will decompose within 2-6 months. Thicker stacks may take closer to a full year as moisture is absorbed from the soil.

Is it safe to use newspaper weed treatment in my vegetable garden?

Yes, as newspapers use only soy-based inks these days, they are safe to use in food producing gardens prior to planting.

Can I kill grass and weeds with newspaper without chemicals?

Definitely! Newspaper provides effective chemical-free weed control when layered properly to block light and smother growth. No toxins required.

How long should I leave the newspaper layers in place for best results?

It’s recommended to leave the newspaper weed treatment undisturbed for 2-3 weeks minimum to fully kill established weeds and grasses before clearing out the dead growth.

Can I place newspaper weed barrier under wood chips or mulch?

Yes, newspaper layers work very well as a weed preventer prior to topping with mulch or wood chips in ornamental beds or paths.

What can I do if some weeds are still growing through my newspaper layers?

For stubborn weeds, overlap edges better, add more layers up to 8 total, re-wet the layers and/or apply secondary thicker coverage over problem spots.

How do I control new weed growth after removing the newspaper treatment?

Periodically reapplying newspaper treatment as needed provides ongoing weed prevention. You can also plant competitive groundcovers or utilize mulch.

Conclusion

Using newspaper is an affordable, effective and eco-friendly solution for controlling grass and weeds. With proper watering and layering technique, the newspaper blocks sunlight and smothers plants fully in 2-4 weeks. For best results, apply 3-4 paper layers during the growing season over freshly cut and irrigated areas. Weigh down edges fully and overlap sheets significantly. Combine with mulch or other organic methods like vinegar for improved weed suppression. Avoid leaving gaps in coverage. With some patience and care with application, newspapers can provide excellent non-chemical weed and grass control for your garden.

Summary

Newspapers provide a cost-effective, non-toxic alternative to commercial weed killers for suppressing grass and weed growth.
Layering 3-4 sheets blocks sunlight, smothers plants, and disrupts growth cycles when applied properly.
Overlapping edges, weighing down newspaper layers, and keeping them moist are key for best results.
For established weeds, use up to 8 layers applied during active growing seasons for 2-3 weeks minimum treatment time.
Combine with mulch layers or other organic methods like vinegar for enhanced grass and weed control.
Avoid gaps, improper weighting, and insufficient overlapping when applying newspaper weed barrier.
With some care taken, newspapers are an eco-friendly solution for killing grass and weeds to create and maintain unwanted-free areas.

How to Kill Grass Naturally, Using Newspapers