Do You Put Down Landscaping Fabric Under Mulch: Understanding the Benefits of Landscaping Fabric Under Mulch

Using landscaping fabric under mulch is a common practice for many homeowners aiming to reduce weed growth and create a longer-lasting, low-maintenance garden bed. Landscaping fabric, also known as weed barrier fabric, is typically made from woven or non-woven materials that allow water and air to reach the soil but inhibit most weeds from emerging. By placing this fabric under a layer of mulch, you provide a physical barrier between the soil and light, making it difficult for weeds to thrive.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. While landscaping fabric can be very effective in the short term, over time, mulch decomposes and soil or dust accumulates on top of the fabric, potentially allowing weeds to take root above the barrier. Additionally, fabric can sometimes impede the natural movement of soil organisms and the integration of organic material into the soil.

From my experience as an interior designer, I often advise clients to balance aesthetics with practicality. For example, in outdoor spaces adjacent to carefully designed patios or living rooms that extend into the garden, the visible transition between hardscaping, softscaping, and planting areas matters as much as weed control. Consider how edge treatments and the choice of mulch color or type can enhance the visual flow of your landscaping—much like how flooring transitions are handled in interior spaces. If you’re planning a larger landscape project, digital tools can help visualize the integration of pathways, planting beds, and mulched zones, giving you precision and clarity in your design process. For more complex layouts, leveraging a floor planner solution can simplify decision-making for both interior and exterior spaces.

Tips 1:

Consider periodically lifting and replacing sections of the landscape fabric to prevent compaction and maintain soil health. Also, choose high-quality mulch that decomposes slowly, reducing the need for frequent replacement and minimizing weed growth on top of the fabric.

FAQ

Q: Do I need landscaping fabric if I use a thick layer of mulch?

A: A thick layer of organic mulch (3–4 inches) can suppress many weeds on its own, but landscaping fabric provides additional weed control, especially for persistent weeds.

Q: What type of mulch works best with landscaping fabric?

A: Both organic (wood chips, bark) and inorganic (gravel, rubber) mulches can be used, though organic mulches may break down and create a soil layer for weeds on top of the fabric over time.

Q: Can plant roots grow through landscaping fabric?

A: Most landscape fabrics are designed to allow water and air through but not roots. It’s best to cut holes or slits in the fabric for your plants.

Q: How long does landscaping fabric last under mulch?

A: Quality landscape fabric can last 5–10 years, depending on conditions, though organic mulch decomposition and UV exposure may shorten its lifespan.

Q: Should landscaping fabric go under stone or gravel pathways?

A: Yes, using landscaping fabric under gravel or stone can help prevent weed growth and reduce sinking or mixing of the stone with soil underneath.