Reply To: Setting up no dig – planting through cardboard?

[Mummitajane]

We have got a new allotment of about 100 sqm. It was strimmed but is covered in weeds. To try and kill the weeds we have completely covered in cardboard. This is working quite well. I am trying the first planting of pumpkins and squash in small gaps in the coverage but they are getting eaten. I fear that I have created a haven for slugs and snails. Any suggestions on how I can keep the cardboard but deter the slugs. I want to create a network of narrow paths and gradually create rectangular borders by putting well rotted horse manure on top of the cardboard. I had though of upside down hessian backed carpet for paths or perhaps gravel is better? Thank you