Starting an in-ground raised veggie bed

Question

I was curious if I could recycle some corrugated cardboard to lay down under my dirt/soil to protect from weeds/animals or if that black mesh that is typically used is far superior.
Thanks,
David

Answer 1

You can use a metal mesh or hardware cloth at the bottom of the raised beds to keep any critters from tunneling under the garden bed.
I personally do not have an issue with tunneling animals in my garden, and skipped this step.

I would avoid using the cardboard at the bottom of the bed, unless you use the 'lasagna method' in the raised beds.

Here are some links with more information.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/raised-vegetable-gardens.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/lasagna-gardening.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/vegetable-garden-soil.htm