Why Weed Fabric Sucks

Why Weed Fabric Sucks

Why does Pristine Landscapes think that weed fabric is a bad thing?? Landscape fabric also known as weed fabric or weed barrier, is a semi-permeable material commonly used in gardening and landscaping to suppress weed growth and maintain a tidy appearance. However, there are a few reasons why landscape fabric may not always be the best choice or why it may not be used in certain situations:

• Ineffective weed control: While landscape fabric can help reduce weed growth initially, determined weeds can still push through and around the fabric over time. Weeds can find their way through any gaps or tears in the fabric or establish root systems on top of the fabric, making it less effective in the long run. Additionally, weed seeds can settle on top of the fabric and germinate, leading to new weed growth.

  
  

• Soil health and drainage issues: Landscape fabric creates a physical barrier between the soil and the external environment. Over time, organic matter accumulates above the fabric, creating a layer that can hinder water penetration and nutrient flow to the soil. This can negatively impact the health of plants, especially those with deeper root systems that require adequate aeration and moisture.

  
  

• Limited planting flexibility: Installing landscape fabric can restrict the ability to make changes or additions to your landscape, which is an ever-changing enviroment. Once the fabric is in place, it becomes challenging to transplant or add new plants without damaging or removing the fabric. This lack of flexibility can be a drawback if you want to modify your garden design or make adjustments over time.

  
  

• Maintenance challenges: While landscape fabric aims to reduce maintenance, it can create challenges in terms of upkeep. Weeds that do manage to penetrate the fabric can be challenging to remove, as they often become entwined with the fabric. Additionally, if you need to access the soil for any reason, such as amending it or digging holes for new plants, you will have to cut or remove sections of the fabric, which can be time-consuming. The best option is to stay on top of weeds by hand pulling or using a tool like a Hula Hoe. Spraying chemical weed control can work fine but is not preferred here at Pristine Landscapes.

  
  

• Aesthetics and longevity: Landscape fabric can degrade over time due to exposure to sunlight and weather conditions. As it deteriorates, it may become visible on the surface or get displaced, affecting the appearance of your landscape. This can lead to the need for replacement or additional maintenance to keep your landscape looking its best. It often times ends up being tore out and thrown into a landfill!

  
  

It's important to note that while landscape fabric may not be suitable for every situation, there are instances where it can be required. These fabrics are often heavy duty and designed for soil/drainage aggregate separation. For example, in certain hardscaping projects, such as under stone walkways, patios and retaining walls a heavy duty geo fabric can help stabilize soil and prevent material migration. Ultimately, the decision to use landscape fabric should be based on careful consideration of the specific needs and conditions of your landscape project, but we can confidently say "weed fabric sucks."

Pristine Landscapes

Lenexa, KS

Don't look too hard at your neighbors or you might notice a mess like this. Side Note: Piling more mulch in this area is not recomended for the tree's health. It's a landscaping sin referrref to as the "mulch volcano".