Landscape fabric and plastic are popular solutions for preventing weeds and controlling erosion in gardens and landscaped areas. These materials can save homeowners time and effort by reducing the need for constant weeding and soil maintenance. However, choosing between landscape fabric and plastic sheeting — and installing them correctly — requires some know-how. This guide will walk through the differences between these materials, their benefits, and step-by-step installation instructions.
Landscape Fabric vs. Plastic Sheeting
Landscape fabric and plastic sheeting serve similar purposes but are suitable for different applications. Understanding the differences is crucial for selecting the right material for your landscaping project.
Landscape Fabric
Landscape fabric can be woven or non-woven and allows water and air to pass through while blocking sunlight to prevent weed growth. It’s commonly used in flower beds, around trees, and in vegetable gardens. Benefits of landscape fabric include:
- Breathability for plant roots
- Water permeability for proper soil hydration
- Durability for long-term use
- Flexibility for conforming to various terrain
Plastic Sheeting
Plastic sheeting is a solid barrier that completely blocks sunlight, water, and air. It’s often used for more temporary applications or in areas where complete moisture control is necessary. The advantages of plastic sheeting include:
- Total weed suppression
- Moisture retention in soil
- Heat retention (good for earlier planting in cold climates)
- Cheaper than landscape fabric
Choosing the Right Material
Deciding between landscape fabric and plastic sheeting will come down to the project specifics. Consider these factors when making a decision:
- Plant types: Choose landscape fabric for areas with perennial plants that need soil access.
- Soil conditions: Use plastic sheeting in areas prone to excess moisture.
- Project duration: Opt for landscape fabric for long-term installations and plastic for temporary solutions.
- Aesthetic preferences: You can cover landscape fabric with mulch for a natural look. Plastic is often used under gravel or in vegetable gardens.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before beginning the installation process, gather the following tools and materials:
- Landscape fabric or plastic sheeting
- Garden staples or landscape pins
- Scissors or utility knife
- Rake
- Shovel
- Gloves
- Measuring tape
- Mulch or gravel (optional)
How to Install Landscape Fabric
Installing landscape fabric requires careful preparation and execution. Follow these steps for a successful installation.
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Begin by clearing all vegetation, rocks, and debris. Use a rake to level the soil surface, removing any lumps or depressions. This creates a smooth base for the fabric to lay flat.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Fabric
Measure the area and cut the landscape fabric to size. Allow for a few extra inches on each side for overlap and securing. If you’re covering a large area, plan for multiple strips with a six-inch overlap between them.
Step 3: Lay the Fabric
Roll out the landscape fabric over the prepared area, making sure the correct side is face up. Most fabrics have a marked side that should face the sky. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds to ensure good contact with the soil.
Step 4: Secure the Fabric
Secure the fabric to the ground with garden staples or landscape pins. Place the pins every two to three feet along the edges and seams. Add more throughout the interior of large pieces. Pay extra attention to corners and areas where the fabric meets hardscaping.
Step 5: Cut Holes for Plants (Optional)
If planting through the fabric, cut X-shaped holes where you plan to put plants. Make the cuts just large enough to accommodate the plant’s root ball.
Step 6: Add Mulch or Decorative Cover
Cover the landscape fabric with two or three inches of mulch, gravel, or other decorative material. This not only looks nice but also protects the fabric from UV degradation.
How to Install Plastic Sheeting
While similar in some ways to landscape fabric installation, plastic sheeting requires a slightly different approach.
Step 1: Prepare the Soil
Clear the area of vegetation and debris, then till the soil if necessary. Rake the surface smooth and level.
Step 2: Lay the Plastic
Unroll the plastic sheeting over the prepared area. If you’re using multiple sheets, overlap the edges by at least six inches to prevent weed growth in between.
Step 3: Secure the Edges
Bury the edges of the plastic in a shallow trench around the area’s perimeter. This stops the plastic from lifting and helps with complete coverage.
Step 4: Cut Planting Holes
Cut holes in the plastic large enough to accommodate any plants. Be careful not to make the holes larger than necessary to avoid giving weeds room to grow.
Step 5: Add Cover Material
If desired, cover the plastic with a layer of mulch or gravel. This improves its appearance and helps hold it in place.
Advanced Installation Techniques and Tips
Here, we explore some advanced tips to maximize the benefits of landscape fabric and plastic sheeting.
Overlapping and Sealing
Proper overlapping and sealing are crucial for preventing weed growth at the seams. For large areas where you’re using multiple sheets or strips, follow these guidelines:
- Overlap each strip by at least six inches.
- Use landscape pins or garden staples to secure overlapping sections every 12-18 inches.
- For added security, consider using a sealant or heavy-duty tape designed for landscaping applications along the seams.
Creating Edging
Edging around the perimeter of the landscaped area helps with neat appearances and additional weed control. You can use various materials for edging, such as:
- Metal or plastic edging strips: These can be inserted into the ground along the edges to hold the fabric or plastic in place.
- Brick or stone: Laying bricks or stones around the edge provides a decorative and functional border.
- Wood: For a more rustic look, you can use pressure-treated or landscape timber.
Dealing with Slopes and Uneven Terrain
Landscaping on a slope or uneven terrain can be challenging. To ensure your material stays in place:
- Cut the landscape fabric or plastic sheeting to fit the contours. Smaller sections may conform better to irregular shapes.
- Secure the material more frequently, especially at the upper edges, to prevent slipping.
- Use additional mulch, gravel, or soil to weigh down material on slopes.
Regularly inspect the material to make sure it’s serving its purpose effectively, especially in areas prone to movement.
Integrating Irrigation Systems
If you have an existing irrigation system or plan to install one, make sure you integrate it with your landscape fabric or plastic sheeting.
- Drip irrigation: Drip irrigation systems are ideal as they deliver water directly to the plants’ roots. Lay the drip lines beneath landscape fabric but above plastic sheeting.
- Soaker hoses: These can be laid directly under the landscape fabric, helping the water reach the soil.
- Sprinkler systems: For overhead watering, make sure the landscape fabric is permeable enough to allow water penetration. Plastic sheeting may need specific watering holes.
Avoid over-watering, as this can lead to mold or mildew growth under the fabric or plastic. Regularly check your irrigation system to prevent leaks or blockages that might compromise the landscaping material.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance helps your landscape fabric or plastic sheeting last a long time. Implementing a regular maintenance routine will keep landscaped areas both functional and aesthetically pleasing:
- Regularly inspect for damage or lifting edges and repair as needed. This step is crucial after storms or heavy rainfall, which might displace the material.
- Remove any weeds that manage to grow through or around the material. Use a hand weeder or other tool to extract roots and discourage regrowth.
- Replenish mulch or gravel annually to protect the underlying material. Mulch decomposes over time, while gravel may shift and expose the fabric or plastic.
- When planting in areas covered with fabric or plastic, take care not to disturb the material more than necessary. Seal new planting holes properly afterward.
Addressing Common Issues
Even with the best installation, you might run into some issues:
- Punctures and Tears: Patch small holes using leftover material or specialized tape. For larger tears, you might need to replace the affected section.
- Soil Erosion: If the soil erodes under the fabric or plastic, reinforce the area with additional stakes or weigh down with more covering material.
- Water Pooling: Keep an eye on water movement over time and adjust the landscape slope if needed. Excess pooling water can drown plants and degrade the material.
Final Thoughts About Installing Landscape Fabric and Plastic
Landscape fabric and plastic sheeting can significantly reduce weed growth and improve soil management in landscaped areas. By carefully considering your specific needs and following proper installation techniques, you can enjoy the benefits of these materials for years to come.
Remember that while these solutions are effective for weed control, they’re not permanent fixes. Maintaining and occasionally replacing the material is necessary to keep gardens and landscapes looking their best. With the right approach, landscape fabric and plastic can be valuable tools in creating and maintaining beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor spaces.
