How to Install Weed Block Fabric

Weeds are the gardener's most ardent opponent. Each week, hours are spent pulling these little intruders from your flower beds. Installing weed block fabric can drastically reduce the amount of weeds popping up among your plants. This project can be completed in a weekend and will dramatically improve the appearance of your garden. Instead of expending your energy pulling weeds, you can sit back and enjoy the peace and serenity of your weed-free space.

Things You'll Need

• Weed block fabric
• Scissors
• Shovel
• Mulch
• Water

Instructions

Preparing the Garden for Installation

1. Clear garden of all unnecessary items and plants. Weed block fabric comes in rolls and is easiest to install in straight lines. You can either remove all garden plants and replant after installation, or you can leave the plants in place and install the fabric around them.

2. Measure length and width of the garden to determine the amount of fabric needed. Allow an extra 3 inches for overlap in between each strip.

3. Water garden lightly.

Installing the Weed Block Fabric

1. Unroll fabric and cut to desired lengths.

2. Lay fabric directly on the ground. Start at one end of the garden and work across to the other end. Overlap strips 3 inches to prevent weeds from growing in between rows of fabric.

3. Cut an "X" in the fabric at the location of each plant. If your garden is empty, you can lay down all rolls of fabric and then cut the spaces for the plants and insert them. If the plants were left in place, cut the spaces as you lay each roll, adjusting the fabric around the plants to ensure coverage.

Securing the Weed Block Fabric

1. Shovel a 3 inch layer of mulch over the fabric. Keep mulch away from the base of plants to prevent stem decay.

2. Replace all decorative items in the garden and adjust mulch around them.

3. Water the garden thoroughly.

References

• "Grow Organic"; DK Publishing; 2008
• "Time-Saver Standards for Landscape Architecture"; Charles Harris and Nicholas Dines; 1997