This explains it all.
Linda C

Here is a link that might be useful: lasagna gardening

Actually, Linda, this link does not explain it all. This is where you can buy the books about Lasagna Gardening. Perhaps you could give us a brief summary of the technique and how it works.

Sorry.....wrong link!!
Linda C

Here is a link that might be useful: lasagna gardening 101

Linda,

Thank you. That article was very interesting. That sounds like something I need to do in a space between two trees that I've been wanting to get ready for planting (my condo association's mowers do not take very good care of this spot and it's right in my line of site from my patio). But the thought of digging up the grass and then digging up the clay to loosen it and mix it with potting soil has kept me from actually accomplishing it. I think I will try a lasagna garden instead. I take it whatever I plant there this year needs to have shallow roots, right? So maybe if I just sprinkle a packet of wildflower seeds this year, and put in something more substantial next year.

The Soil, Compost, Mulch forum has very informative details about lasagna bed/sheet compost building. Patricia Lanza's method was not actually unique. There is no need to use the exact recipe she prescribed, for example peat moss. It is considered non renewable resource and it supposedly contributes no nutrients to the soil anyway, so there is really no need for it in a bed. Other organic materials will work much better at no cost to you.

Please check out the SCM forum, especially the FAQ.
Have fun.

Here is a link that might be useful: Creating beds without tilling

My husband & I love our lasagna garden. We've done this for only 2 yrs., but what a time saver. We go to a local construction company and pick up their used boxes to put directly on the soil - then we place grass clippings and water down. We do this for approximately 3 weeks with fresh grass clipping and watering. Then when it's time to plant just cut a hole through the cardboard for produce and bury in the soil. You will have to continue to put grass clippings upon some weeds that will sneak through. I only suggest this type of a garden for tomatoes, gourds, cuks, melons. Tradition garden for beens, herbs, etc. works better.