If you are into gardening, you will know how easily weed can take over a garden. It can grow around flowers, crops, and plantations.
They end up stealing essential nutrients from the plants, which can lead to stunted growth. But with landscape fabric, you can ensure that your plants will get all kinds of nutrients without having to fight for them.
Also, it can be used as an underlayer for indoor spaces where you want to keep artificial grass. It will prevent the artificial grass layer from moving out of place, and you can create a kid’s playground or a walking area on top.
They will allow water as well as air to enter while it will not allow weeds to grow around the plants. Hi! I am Stacy Smith, and today I will introduce the top 5 options that will help you look for the best landscape fabric.
So, grab a cup of your favorite beverage and read on!
Top 5 Landscape Fabric
1. GardenMate Weed Control Fabric
If you have pets in the garden, you will probably not want to use pesticides. That is where the GardenMate Weed Control Fabric comes in. It will prevent the growth of weed, keeping the area safe.
Product Highlights
This is one of the most efficient fabrics that is breathable, allowing air and nutrients to pass through. Water will also be able to go through, but sunlight will be prevented. The product is made out of polypropylene which is pollutant-free. It contains no plasticizers making it perfect for vegetable patches.
Moreover, it is very durable and will prevent weeds from growing in your garden for a long time. It can be used over gravel, mulch, along with sand because of its tear-resistance capability.
Plus, it can prevent UV rays from entering and causing damage. Hence, biodegradation from sunlight will be reduced to a great extent. This makes the fabric more durable, ensuring that you can use it for years to come.
Moving on, this product is known for its versatile applications, and you can use it for path and terrace construction. It can also be used as a drainage fleece as water can flow right in.
What’s There To Like About It?
I used this landscape fabric as a ribbon and a mulch film for my garden, and it has been working very efficiently. You will get a long sheet that can be cut according to the size of the lawn or the garden. I was able to do it with the help of craft scissors.
Also, you can use multiple sheets together for large lawns. Just ensure that they overlap each other for around 4 inches, and you should be good.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
While I was very happy with the water permeability feature, the water would enter through the fabric very slowly. Now, this will work for plants that need a steady flow of water, but it may be problematic for cases where water needs to flow quickly. However, I am not going to hold this as a drawback as the water will eventually flow down.
Pros and Cons of GardenMate Weed Control Fabric
Pros
Cons
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY WEED BARRIER: Our weed control fabric prevents the growth of weeds without the use of harmful pesticides. The breathable, water permeable fabric allows air, water and nutrients to pass through into the soil below, whilst blocking sunlight - thus preventing weed growth. The geotextile is made of pollutant-free polypropylene and does not contain any plasticisers, making it particularly suitable for use in a vegetable patch.
- DURABLE AND UV STABILISED: Our 100g/m² weed fabric is ideal for long-term use in the garden. Extremely tear-resistant and stable, it can be covered with mulch, sand or gravel. Additional stabilisation against UV light reduces biodegradation from sunlight and improves the durability of the fabric.
- VERSATILE APPLICATIONS: Our geo-fleece can be used in vegetable patches, raised beds, rockeries, for the construction of a terrace, in paving and path construction, as drainage fleece, strawberry fleece, under a sandpit, as mulch film, raised bed film, in flower boxes and much more. The ribbon fabric is easy to cut with household scissors or a craft knife. Edges should overlap at least 10cm, and we recommend our GardenMate ground anchors for fastening.
2. Keeswin Garden Weed Barrier
Up next is a very thick fabric that will work better than most PE materials. The Keeswin Garden Weed Barrier will be an incredible choice for large stretches of land. I loved the efficient and environment-friendly fabric.
Product Highlights
If you are looking for a fabric that can provide enough shade, then this is the one to choose. It has the capacity of preventing 90% of the light from penetrating inside. I was happy to see that the growth of weed was stopped, and one could look forward to the proper growth of crops.
That’s not all; one of the biggest features of this material is that it can contain as well as maintain the moisture level in the soil. Some even use it for mulching the soil as it keeps the moisture intact, making sure that the temperature of the soil stays constant.
Many people use this in winter, where the product has the capacity to raise the temperature up by 10 degrees. This would keep the roots warm, ensuring proper root growth. It might even speed up the process, and you will be able to see the plants grow well post-winter.
What’s There To Like About It?
The product is environment-friendly and a great replacement for weed pesticides. I am generally skeptical about applying artificial chemicals to my yard, hence, this proved to be a great alternative. In addition, it did not harm the ecosystem and prevented any unnecessary synthetic agents from affecting the soil.
Moreover, the fabric can easily be installed, and you can cut it into shape depending on the size of the place. I used staples to keep it in place as it gets very windy on some days.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
If you live in a windy area like me, then you will need large staples to hold the fabric in place. However, staples are not provided along with them, and you will have to purchase them separately. Now that you know about it, order staples along with the product.
Pros and Cons of Keeswin Garden Weed Barrier
Pros
Cons
- Premium Fabric Weed Barrier -- Made of non-woven fabric and it is thicker than other PE materials on the market. Measures 31.5 Inches x 100 Feet. Thick and durable fabric can be used for a long time.
- Thicker Fabric Shade Light Effectively -- The fabric week barrier can shade the light up to 90%, The growth of weeds will be greatly inhibited, which can significantly reduce the influence of weeds on crop growth.When weeding in the field, just remove the weeds in the soil between the rows of the plant.
- Fabric Material Can Maintain Soil Moisture -- Mulching the soil with this weed mat can effectively retain soil moisture, increase soil temperature, promote root development, and thus improve the yield and quality of plants.The soil temperature in strawberry or other plants’ root concentration area can be increased from -5℃ to above 5℃ in most winter, that is, it can be raised to above the starting temperature of growth, so as to maintain a certain growth of roots and speed up the growth process.
3. Petgrow Landscape Fabric
The Petgrow Landscape Fabric is a heavy-duty option that will prevent the growth of weeds allowing your plants to flourish. I have been looking for something that will help in maintaining the health of the soil, and this fits in perfectly well.
Product Highlights
This is a premium landscape fabric option that comes with needle-punched holes on top. The mini holes will allow the easy movement of water and air, ensuring that the soil is never dry. Its permeability will surely impress you as it will keep the plants growing well. You will have nourished soil, and weeds will not grow in the covered area.
Besides, this will prevent erosion from happening in case the area is prone to heavy rainfall. Keep it right on top of the soil, and the nutrients can be preserved. Also, you can be sure that the nutrients will not flow down with water.
Next, you should know that this product is very durable, ensuring that it will easily last for more than 5 years. You can keep it in direct sunlight, and it will still last for a long time. Plus, it is very easy to clean. You can just use water to wash it once in a while.
What’s There To Like About It?
I wanted to keep artificial grass, and this proved to be a great underlayer for it. It will keep flower beds, vegetable patches, along with gardens safe. You can use it to cover all of them, keeping them safe from bad weather.
Moving on, I found that the ecosystem was not harmed as no artificial chemicals were added. My friend Angie told me that her plants were growing a lot better after she shifted to using this landscape fabric.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
I noticed that the edges get slightly frayed when you cut the fabric. Try not using knives as that could again lead to fraying. To prevent this, I would recommend using sharp scissors, which will ensure smoother edges. You can then gently cut the sides to keep them in one length. Now that you know about it, there should be no further problems.
Pros and Cons of Petgrow Landscape Fabric
Pros
Cons
- Weed Control Environment Friendly – Made Of Heavy-Duty Professional Grade Polypropylene Material, chemical free,durable, sturdy and corrosion resistant. Eco-friendly preventing unwanted weeds from germinating without chemicals.Keep your soil health. Doesn't harm the ecosystem of your yard and llowing your plants to thrive.
- Premium Weed Barrier Fabric - Heavy Duty Weed blocker fabric is needle-punched to transmit water and air, preserving the soil moisture. Fabric allows air and water through, superior permeability to keep the soil nourished, but still keeps weeds away.
- Erosion Control Efficiency - Weed Blocking Fabric Can Be Quickly Implemented To Contain Materials And Prevent Further Erosion On Your Gardening, Lines Helped To Judge Straightness And Spacing.
4. Kdgarden Premium Landscape Fabric
The Kdgarden Premium Landscape Fabric is a brilliant option and is known for its weatherproof properties. You can easily protect the soil ecosystem without mixing any artificial chemicals with it.
Product Highlights
To begin with, the fabric is made of premium grade polypropylene material. It will create a weed barrier and will ensure that your plants can grow well. I was very happy to see that the material was very durable, making it a perfect choice for busy people who cannot keep changing the landscape fabric.
Moreover, it is weatherproof and will not be affected by heavy rain, sunlight, or high wind. You can use a stapler to staple the sides, as that would keep it in one place. Furthermore, the surface is UV-treated and will provide complete weed protection.
Next, you can easily cut and shape the fabric. If you are going to use it on cultivated plants, then you can cut slits in between for the crops. It would protect the soil along with its nutrient and moisture level.
What’s There To Like About It?
One of my friends was opening a kindergarten. She used the landscape fabric for the base of the playground. It acts as a great underlayer, and one can then put artificial grass on top.
Additionally, the brand provides you with a 1-year limited warranty so you can get free replacement parts if needed. The customer care can be contacted easily, and they helped me with my queries right away.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Sharp objects can be found around the yard, and they all need to be cleaned before you put the landscape fabric. This is important as otherwise, the fabric will not be able to provide complete protection, and the sharp objects may create holes in it. Just keep this in mind while you use this option.
Pros and Cons of Kdgarden Premium Landscape Fabric
Pros
Cons
- [PREMIUM 5OZ PRO WEED BARRIER FABRIC] - Made of heavy duty professional grade 5oz/sq.yd (142gsm) high density woven Polypropylene, the weed barrier landscape fabric is durable and permeable, which allows air and water to pass through to keep the soil nourished, will highly increase your productivity and efficiency!
- [ENVIRONMENTAL-FRIENDLY WEED FABRIC] - Made of heavy duty professional grade Polypropylene material, the weed barrier landscape fabric is durable and environmental friendly, stopping grass weeds so as to keep your soil healthy. Protect the ecosystem of your yard but allow your plants to grow thrively
- [WEATHER PROOF AND LONG LASTING] - The premium high density woven Polypropylene material makes this weed fabric weather proof and UV-Treated, providing you with premium weed protection for a very long time
5. Snail Landscape Fabric
One of my final choices is the Snail Landscape Fabric which can be used as a weed barrier on any surface. You can look forward to greater productivity of the soil, and it will become an integral part of the yard’s ecosystem.
Product Highlights
This product is made of heavy-duty polypropylene, which is durable and of premium grade. It is also a high-density 5oz/sq—yd fabric that will protect your soil well. Attach a few staples on the sides, and you will easily be able to stop the weed from growing.
Moreover, it is very easy to install, and you can cut it into shapes as needed. There are green lines that can help you place the plants in an aligned manner. It is often used for commercial purposes in driveways, gardens, vegetable beds, chippings, stones, and walkways. In most cases, it is placed as an underlayer as it will keep the top layer in place.
Moving on, the item is highly efficient in letting water pass through. You can rest assured that the soil will receive nutrients and water and will prevent UV rays from affecting the plants.
What’s There To Like About It?
I wanted a beautiful stone-paved pathway leading to the house from in between the garden. This fabric was used as an underlayer to it, and the stones stayed right in position. My dog wanders around on top of it, but the stones do not get displaced.
Also, you will not need any professional guidance as the fabric is very easy to cut through. You can take the help of a gardener or a friend to help in drawing out the shape first before cutting it.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
The only issue that I faced with this product is that it does not allow a lot of water to permeate in. The fabric is very thick, making it difficult for the water to trickle down. However, it does trickle, but it takes a longer time. Now that you know about it, you can purchase accordingly.
Pros and Cons of Snail Landscape Fabric
Pros
Cons
- [HEAVY DUTY & HIGH PERMEABILITY] â–º The durable and permeable weed barrier landscape fabric is made of heavy duty and high density professional grade 5oz/sq.yd (142gsm) woven Polypropylene, which allows air and water to pass through to keep the soil nourished, will highly increase your productivity and efficiency!
- [ENVIRONMENTAL & SOIL FRIENDLY] â–º Made of heavy duty professional grade Polypropylene material, the ground cover landscape fabric is environmental soil friendly, stopping grass weeds so as to keep your soil healthy. Protect your yard's ecosystem and thrive your plants
- [WEATHER PROOF FOR DURABILITY] â–º The premium high density woven Polypropylene material makes this weed fabric weather proof and UV stabilized, providing you with premium weed protection for a very long time
Buyers Guide
Now that you are familiar with the best landscape fabric options let me help you in deciding upon one. I have spoken about a lot of different features, and it is important for you to find out which one is the best-suited for you. The following points will guide you in choosing, hence, go through them carefully.
1. Size
Landscape fabrics are available in different sizes as well as densities. You will need to look into your requirements and check the size of the area that needs to be covered. If you have a big ground, then either go for a large one, or buy 2-3 pieces.
Then, you will need to place them in such a way that they cover enough ground area while overlapping. At least 4 inches from the corners should overlap over each other for the right fit.
2. Permeability
Angie told me that a good landscape fabric should be permeable, and water should be able to trickle inside. Water along with air are key ingredients that will let the soil stay hydrated and filled with nutrients.
If it does not let water inside, then the soil might dry up, and the plants may not survive. Now some people might want the water to slowly enter the ground through the fabric, while others may want quick water flow.
Please make a decision before purchasing as there are options for both. If you need both the qualities, purchase 2 products and use them separately.
3. Prevention Of Weed Growth
One of the major benefits of landscape fabric is that they can prevent the growth of weeds. While it will not affect your crops or plants, it will prevent unnecessary weeds from growing around. Now, this is a property that will be necessary for you if you are going to cover grassy areas or plantations with it.
But if you are going to use it as an underlayer for playgrounds or indoor spaces, then this is not an important quality. Here, look for a thick fabric that will stay in place even with high traffic.
4. UV-Protection
I wanted to use landscape fabric for my garden to prevent UV rays from damaging the plants. Some landscape fabric will be able to prevent UV rays from penetrating through it. That would keep the soil safe and will prevent it from getting dry.
In case the product does not offer protection from UV rays, you can lay some mulch with soil on top of the fabric. The mulch will keep the fabric safe and will prevent UV rays from directly touching it.
5. Prevention Of Erosion
When there are floods or heavy rainfall, the topsoil can easily get flown away, leaving the garden barren. You would then have to add a lot of nutrients and a layer of soil bought from a nursery. The entire process can become expensive, but it can easily be sorted out if you use landscape fabric.
If you live in a place where erosion can happen, you should purchase thick landscape fabric which will prevent the soil from getting eroded. Use good staple pins to keep it in place and it will work out well.
6. Environment-friendly
A good landscape fabric needs to be environment-friendly as you will not want to add anything unnecessary to the soil. This can prevent the use of chemical fertilizers or weed killers in the soil.
Synthetic chemicals can do a lot of harm to crops that are not needed. Now some people do not want to use landscape fabric as it spoils the look of gardens. However, you should know that it will keep your grass protected, and the plants will grow in a healthy manner.
Remove the fabric during parties in the backyard or the garden. The grass will then look great and attractive.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, I will tell you about the frequently asked questions and provide solutions for them. Read on!
Yes, you will find nonwoven, perforated, and woven landscape fabric on the market. Each comes with its own sets of benefits. You can read about them before purchasing. While some will help control the weed, others may work as a good underlayer.
Generally, landscape fabric is put on top of the soil and roots of trees. It will keep them sealed protecting them from external factors. However, you can place mulch or gravel on top, which will protect the fabric too.
Filter fabric is like landscape fabric, but it is generally a lot thinner. It does not block UV rays and may not work for a long time. Hence, if you want to protect your flower or crop beds, it is better to choose the thicker version, which is the landscape fabric.
My Final Recommendations
Before you place the fabric, please take out all the weed and then mix it with the soil. This will add to the soil nutrients making it perfect for your plants. Also, you need to smoothen the soil so that the landscape fabric can cover the top.Â
I have finally reached the end of this guide, and it is time to take you through my favorites. The GardenMate Weed Control Fabric is my topmost choice because of its incredible efficiency. But if you are looking for very thick fabric, then the Keeswin Garden Weed Barrier will work well.Â
Lastly, the Petgrow Landscape Fabric is a heavy-duty option to choose. Let me know about your favorites in the comment section below.Â
Take care and happy gardening!