How to install landscape fabric under mulch: A step-by-step guide for beginner gardeners

Installing landscape fabric under mulch is an effective way to control weeds, retain soil moisture, and give your garden a tidy appearance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it right:

1. Clear the Area: Start by removing all existing weeds, rocks, and debris from the target site. Level the soil and rake it smooth for an even surface.
2. Amend the Soil: Before laying the fabric, add any soil amendments or compost, then till the area lightly to incorporate them.
3. Measure and Cut the Fabric: Unroll your landscape fabric and measure to fit the area. Cut it to size using scissors or a utility knife. If covering a large area, overlap multiple fabric sheets by at least 6 inches to prevent weeds from slipping through the cracks.
4. Lay the Fabric: Position the fabric over the prepared soil. For areas around plants or trees, cut an X or slit in the fabric and gently slide it over the stems or trunks.
5. Secure the Edges: Use landscape fabric pins or garden staples to anchor the fabric to the ground, especially along the edges and overlaps.
6. Mulch Over the Fabric: Spread 2-3 inches of your chosen mulch (bark, wood chips, or decorative stone) evenly over the fabric. This helps keep the fabric in place, adds aesthetic appeal, and improves moisture retention.
7. Final Touches: Tidy the edges and check for exposed fabric. Ensure irrigation can still reach plant roots, and adjust mulch and fabric as needed over time.

As a designer, I often notice that using high-quality materials—both the right landscape fabric and the appropriate mulch—has a subtle but powerful effect on the overall flow and harmony of a garden’s space. If you're considering new installations or even full outdoor redesigns, employing digital tools like Home Designer can greatly assist in visualizing different landscaping layers, textures, and patterns before making physical changes, maximizing the efficiency and aesthetics of your project.

Tips 1:

Always select a breathable, UV-resistant landscape fabric. Avoid plastic sheeting, which can suffocate roots and prevent proper water drainage. Check on your mulch yearly; replenish as needed and monitor for fabric exposure.

FAQ

Q: Should landscape fabric go under all mulch types?

A: Yes, using fabric works under organic (like bark) and inorganic (like stone) mulches, as long as it's permeable and allows water to reach the soil.

Q: How long does landscape fabric typically last under mulch?

A: Quality fabric can last 5–10 years, depending on material, UV exposure, and foot traffic. Check for holes or breakdowns annually.

Q: Can landscape fabric prevent all weeds?

A: It significantly reduces weeds but won’t eliminate them entirely. Persistent weeds may grow on top or sneak through seams; occasional hand-pulling is needed.

Q: Does landscape fabric harm plant roots?

A: If properly installed, permeable fabric doesn’t harm roots; it helps retain moisture. Avoid heavy, non-breathable plastic sheeting.

Q: Is it easy to add new plants after installing landscape fabric?

A: Yes. Simply cut a slit or X where you want to place the plant, fold back the fabric, plant, and re-secure around the base. This preserves weed control without disturbing the covered area.