Do you need landscaping fabric under mulch: Exploring the necessity of landscaping fabric for effective mulch application

Whether you need landscaping fabric under mulch depends on your specific goals for your garden or landscape. Landscaping fabric (also known as weed barrier fabric) is commonly used to prevent weed growth by blocking sunlight while still allowing air and water to reach the soil. If you’re primarily interested in suppressing weeds, especially in areas with persistent invasive plants, landscaping fabric can be an effective solution under wood chips or stone mulch.

However, as a designer, I often weigh the long-term health of the garden against short-term convenience. While landscaping fabric can initially slow weed growth, it may eventually become clogged with organic debris, reducing water and air flow to plant roots. Mulch layered thickly (2-4 inches) on its own can also suppress weeds and helps improve soil quality as it breaks down—something fabric can inhibit.

If you’re designing a landscape for both aesthetics and function, consider the type of mulch, plants, and your maintenance goals. For perennial beds or ornamental gardens, skipping the fabric and instead refreshing mulch annually is often the preferred solution. But for paths or areas with minimal planting, fabric can help create clean lines and lower maintenance. Whenever I’m planning functional outdoor zones, I use the same strategic approach as I would for a well-organized interior—focusing on the long-term ease and health of the space.

For those seeking to plan garden features or visualize their outdoor zones before starting, using a room planner can provide a neat, designer-informed perspective, allowing you to experiment with layouts and materials virtually.

Tips 1:

If you choose to use landscaping fabric, make sure to cut holes for existing plants and use landscape staples to secure the fabric before adding mulch. If you skip the fabric, apply mulch generously and refresh seasonally for best weed suppression and soil health.

FAQ

Q: Can I put mulch directly on soil?

A: Yes, you can put mulch directly on soil. A 2-4 inch layer of mulch is usually sufficient to suppress most weeds and enhance soil health without landscaping fabric.

Q: Does landscaping fabric prevent all weeds?

A: No, while it suppresses many weeds, persistent or aggressive weeds may still find a way through seams or holes over time.

Q: Will landscaping fabric harm my plants?

A: If not installed properly or if it becomes clogged, landscaping fabric can reduce water and air access to roots, which may affect plant health.

Q: How long does landscaping fabric last under mulch?

A: Quality landscaping fabric typically lasts 5-10 years, but its effectiveness decreases as organic debris builds up above the fabric.

Q: Is landscape fabric biodegradable?

A: Most commercial landscape fabrics are not biodegradable, making removal necessary if you change your planting plan or want to restore soil health.