Can newspapers be used as a mulch in the vegetable garden?

Question:

Can newspapers be used as a mulch in the vegetable garden?

Answer:

Yes, shredded newspapers or whole sheets may be used as a mulch in the vegetable garden. Newspapers use organic inks so gardeners need not worry about lead contamination.  When using newspaper sheets, place a layer of 2 to 4 sheets between plant rows in the garden.  Water the sheets so they stick to one another and to the soil surface, then place a layer of dry grass clippings, shredded leaves, or straw over the newspaper.