So the method is simple. Cardboard, then manure. Its hard work but easier than digging, with the added bonus of not killing millions of microbiomes in the process. the cardboard blocks out the light to kill the weeds, it also attracts worms. We leave uncovered until we have had plenty of rain,under plastic the cardboard and manure will break down by the spring, the plastic will keep the soil a little warmer so we should be able to give it a light rake and plant seedlings.