Can You Use a Weed Mat When Planting Perennials?
Perennials, like all garden and landscape plants, prefer a weed-free environment. Using a weed mat helps suppress undesirable plants and keep them from competing with perennials. Does this Spark an idea?
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Purpose
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Weed mats prevent the growth of undesirable plants that compete with perennials and other plants for sunlight, moisture and nutrients. The mats effectively keep new weeds from growing: Weed seeds in the ground begin growing but quickly die from lack of sunlight.
Use
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A weed mat is positioned over the desired area and held in place with landscape staples. An "X" or holes are cut into the mat and the young perennial plant or seed is placed inside. The perennial can be watered and receive nutrients and sunlight. Mulch added to the top of the mat helps hold it in place, prevents moisture loss and covers the unattractive mat.
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Types
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Weed mats can be made of porous, fabric-like material that allows water and air to penetrate the mat and enter the soil. Mats may also be made of plastic. Specialized weed mats that look like mulch can replace mulch entirely.
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References
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Comments
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Weed Mats DO NOT HELP...in fact, most landscapers will talk customers out of them every chance they get. While they may stop weeds that have already dropped their seeds, they do nothing but make the problem worse for any seed that falls into the flower beds after the mat has been placed. Grass and other weeds that begin to grow AFTER the mat is put in place will simply force their roots into and through the mats, making pulling out the weeds/grass very tough, often times you'll drag the mat right up along with the offending weed. Unless you are prepared to replace the mats EVERY year, they are simply a waste of time.
