Master the basics of how and where to use landscape fabric the right way.
Landscape fabric seems like the perfect solution forblocking weeds from popping up in your garden.
However, it isn’t a permanent solution to controlling weeds (nature will find a way).
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Even when using landscape fabric, you’ll stillneed to do some weeding.
Landscape fabrics are less effective when used underorganic mulch such as wood chips or bark.
As this mulch decomposes, it effectively creates a new layer of soil above the landscape fabric.
Once holes have been opened in the fabric, they create an opportunity for more weed to become established.
If the area will be planted, mix in any desiredfertilizers, compost, and other soil amendments.
Then, level out the soil to avoid holes and divots that may accumulate water andcause drainage issues.
verify to allow a few inches of overhang on all sides.
This willprevent weeds from growingthrough the seams and allow for a little movement.
Use landscape pins, aka garden staples, to secure the fabric to the soil.
About one foot between pins is sufficient to hold the fabric in place.
Excess fabric along edges can be doubled back or buried in the soil.
Yearly maintenance is key to keeping the weed barrier secure and functional.
If metal pins rust away or break, replace them as needed to keep the fabric in place.
Landscape Fabric Alternatives
Some planting styles can decrease or even eliminate the need for landscape fabrics entirely.
For example in naturalistic gardens, plants are grown closely together so they block out weedy competition.
Another landscape fabric alternative isusing cover crops.
