Do You Put Landscape Fabric Under Mulch: Exploring the Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Landscape Fabric

Whether or not to put landscape fabric under mulch is a common question for both homeowners and professionals tackling garden or outdoor updates. The primary purpose of landscape fabric is to act as a barrier that suppresses weed growth while still allowing water and nutrients to pass through to the soil. When installed correctly, it can make garden maintenance simpler by reducing the need to pull weeds. However, it's important to note that opinions differ, and the "right" choice depends on your specific goals, long-term maintenance plans, and the materials used.

Some gardeners recommend using landscape fabric under mulch to create a cleaner, lower-maintenance garden bed. The fabric effectively blocks most weeds from sprouting up through the mulch, particularly aggressive varieties. However, critics argue that fabric can prevent beneficial organic matter from mixing into the soil, may harbor weeds on top of the mulch layer, and can interfere with soil health over the years. It also sometimes becomes exposed as mulch breaks down or shifts with time.

As a designer, I tend to evaluate whether to use landscape fabric based on the type of mulch, climate, and desired aesthetic. For example, with decorative gravel or stone mulches, landscape fabric usually works well to keep stones from mixing into the soil and to stop weeds. But for natural organic mulches like bark or wood chips, I often recommend against fabric, favoring more frequent mulch top-ups and soil amendments to enrich plant health and promote a healthier ecosystem.

In summary, there’s no universal answer. For low-maintenance, minimal-planting beds, landscape fabric under mulch can be an effective solution. For richer, evolving gardens, a more organic approach may yield better long-term results. When planning your landscape, leveraging professional interior and exterior design principles ensures both function and beauty—from the inside of your home right through to your garden beds. Thinking holistically, you might find tools like AI Interior Design invaluable for visualizing how your outdoor choices complement your home’s overall style.

Tips 1:

Always overlap your landscape fabric by at least six inches to prevent weed growth at the seams, and secure it with landscape staples for best results. Remember, keeping a 2-3 inch layer of mulch on top will further suppress weeds and help maintain soil temperature and moisture.

FAQ

Q: Does landscape fabric prevent all weeds from growing?

A: While landscape fabric reduces weed growth significantly, some persistent weeds can still germinate on top of mulch, especially as it breaks down and organic debris accumulates.

Q: Can I use landscape fabric with all types of mulch?

A: It works well with inorganic mulches like gravel or stone, but for organic mulches, designers often recommend skipping fabric for better soil health.

Q: Will landscape fabric affect soil quality?

A: Over time, landscape fabric can limit organic matter and moisture exchange, potentially impacting soil structure and beneficial organisms.

Q: How long will landscape fabric last under mulch?

A: High-quality landscape fabric can last several years, but it may degrade faster in high-traffic or exposed areas.

Q: What alternatives exist to using landscape fabric under mulch?

A: Alternatives include applying a thick mulch layer, using cardboard or newspaper as a biodegradable barrier, and regular weeding as part of garden upkeep.