how to use landscape fabric
Landscape fabric, also known as weed barrier or weed blocking fabric, is a commonly used material in gardening and landscaping to suppress weed growth and maintain a tidy appearance.
To properly use landscape fabric, follow these steps:
Prepare the land by removing weeds, rocks, and debris. Level the soil surface.
Measure and lay out the landscape fabric according to the work area, leaving excess fabric on the edges to overlap and secure. The rough microfabric side faces downward.
Secure the fabric: Use U-shaped landscape fabric stakes or pins every 4-6 inches along the edges and throughout the fabric to prevent shifting or blowing away in the wind.
Cut openings: If planting trees, shrubs or other plants through the fabric, cut an X or slit where needed. Be careful not to make openings too large to avoid weed infiltration.
Cover the fabric: For bare soil, lay a 2-4 inch layer of mulch or wood chips to help hold it in place while further suppressing weeds. Leave a bare circle around plants for watering.
Re-secure any overlapping seams or edges that shift after 6-12 months as the ground settles.
The fabric can last 2-5 years depending on UV exposure and soil conditions. Replace as needed if weeds start growing through holes.
Periodically inspect the landscape fabric and make any necessary repairs or adjustments over time.
