How to Install a Weed Barrier
Weed barriers, sometimes called landscape fabric, can be effective in keeping weeds and other unwanted plants from areas of the yard or garden. Once installed, the barrier requires little effort to maintain, making it one of the least labor-intensive methods of weed control. Proper installation will improve the effectiveness of the weed barrier. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Weed-barrier fabric
- Scissors or a utility knife
- Shovel
- Rake
- Anchor stakes
- Mulch
Instructions
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Installing a Weed Barrier
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1
Select a weed barrier. Modern weed barriers are porous allowing water and fertilizer to pass through. The pores of the barrier need to be small enough to prohibit sprouted seeds from growing up through the barrier. Hold the barrier up to a light to view the pores. In some stores, samples of the weed barrier are available to check. Compare various brands and products to find the barrier with the finest pores. Other gardeners in the area might have suggestions as well.
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2
Remove any plants or weeds growing where the weed barrier will be placed. Also remove any sticks, twigs or rocks that might tear the weed barrier. Any holes in the weed barrier will allow weeds to grow through.
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3
Cut the weed barrier in pieces to fit your space and place the weed barrier on the ground. Overlap pieces by about six inches. Use rocks to hold the fabric down during the installation process. Once all the weed barrier has been properly placed, attach it to the ground using metal or plastic anchors. Bury the edges of the weed barrier in a shallow trench.
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4
Cover the weed barrier with mulch or stone. The choice of weed-barrier cover is usually based on cost, availability and aesthetics. Some weeds may sprout in mulch, but the amount is minimal compared to the growth in open soil.
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Tips & Warnings
Check the weed barrier every spring for tears. Carefully rake the mulch to the side and repair any tears in the fabric by covering and anchoring small pieces of weed barrier over the holes. Properly cared for a weed barrier should last for a number of years.
Weed barriers are available at most home improvement or garden center stores. The barrier is usually sold in rolls and can be cut to length with household scissors or a utility knife.
Previously, non-porous plastic sheeting was often used as a weed barrier. Plastic sheeting does not allow the passage of water or water vapor. During sunny and warm weather the trapped water vapor under the plastic sheeting can facilitate the growth of mold and mildew.
