6 reasons to avoid it and some worthy alternatives
By John Geiger
Landscape fabric. The concept seems great: a barrier that prevents weed growth while still allowing water through to plant roots. Unfortunately, it’s too good to be true. Here are 6 reasons why….
1. It doesn’t prevent weeds
Not for long at least. It will effectively smother weeds at first, but inevitably (usually quicker than you might expect) organic matter accumulates over it, and when it does you get a nice new layer for weeds to set seed.
2. It doesn’t remain permeable
Many fabrics start by being “somewhat” porous, still restricting water and air flow to a degree. Then, over time the pores in the fabric fill with sediment and porosity is all but eliminated.
3. It makes digging a chore
Once the fabric is laid, adding in new plants and replacing dead ones becomes a lot more difficult. Not only do you not have direct access to your soil, but you also have to cut through the fabric to make any desired changes. Even transplanting can be a headache as the roots of some plants may intertwine with the landscape fabric.
4. It harms the environment
Landscape fabric is normally made of woven polypropylene. It will eventually degrade, and when it does it puts plastic particles into the soil. It also interrupts the soil’s natural biological processes and keeps earthworms and other necessary organisms from doing their jobs.
5. It's not compatible with organic mulch
Organic mulch is meant to decompose over time but when its placed atop landscape fabric the decomposition process is altered and it transforms into a sturdy block that limits water and air infiltration.
6. Aesthetic headaches await
Weeds aside, landscape fabric invariably becomes exposed. And once it’s above the surface, the seemingly never-ending battle to tuck it away begins.
Alternatives to landscape fabric
- Newspaper – Use a thin layer – a half dozen sheets will do – unless you want an impermeable layer. Then go big. Avoid using glossy paper inserts.
- Cardboard – Popular amongst gardeners, just be careful to remove all stickers and tape and avoid wax-coated cardboard. Also, be sure to cut a wide enough hole around your plants to make sure water can effectively reach the roots.
- Wood Mulch – Shredded wood mulch works great and breaks down gradually. Avoid dyed mulches; the dye will eventually leach into the soil, harming your plants.
- Shredded leaves and pine needles – A layer 4 inches thick works fantastically and most Woodlands’ yards produce a never-ending supply.
