Using Shredded Office Paper as Garden Mulch: Ink Safety and Practical Tips

A teacher wants to use shredded laser-printed office paper (black toner) as weed barrier in a community garden. Newspaper with soy-based ink is safe; glossy/colored pages may contain heavy metals. Laser toner is mostly carbon black and polymer—low risk at typical mulch volumes, but not zero.

Practical advice:

• Use whole newspaper sheets instead—easier to lay, less wind scatter.
• Wet paper after laying to anchor it.
• Cover with straw or wood chips for aesthetics and moisture retention.
• If using shredded paper, apply in calm weather and wet immediately.

The ink-to-paper ratio is tiny; most gardeners accept the minimal risk. For absolute certainty, stick to cardboard or untreated newspaper.