Everyone hates weeds, and we are constantly trying to figure out the best way to prevent them. Many people think that installing weed barrier is going to solve all their weed problems, but is it really a good idea?

The Truth About Weed Barrier

Let's talk about installing mulch on top of a weed barrier. What happens to mulch every year? It eventually loses its color and breaks down into soil. After years of replenishing mulch, you create a beautiful soil layer on top of your weed barrier. The good news is you have created a great mulch base, high in organic matter. The bad news is, the decomposition of the mulch on top of the weed barrier has just created an optimal and excellent opportunity for weeds to grow. 

When the weeds start popping up and it's time to pull them, it is more difficult to pull them because the roots are often embedded in the fabric. Therefore, when you do pull them, the entire root is not removed, and the weeds grow back in quickly. So, while the weed barrier fabric seems like a good idea for weed prevention in your beds, it actually leads to more weeds.

A Great Alternative to Weed Barrier

Using a preemergent herbicide when you spread your fresh mulch is a great way to avoid weeds. As the season goes on, maintain the areas by hand pulling the visible weeds, or using a non-selective herbicide, or do a combination of both. This should be sufficient when trying to combat any weed problem. 

The Best Use for Weed Barrier

When it comes to decorative rock installation, a weed barrier is a necessity and it will give you much better results in controlling weeds. Obviously, rock is not going to break down like mulch, but be aware that rock can be more costly than mulch. When installing rock, I recommend a geo-textile fabric. This type of fabric is a stronger, more durable landscape fabric than typical weed barrier. If you are having rock installed by a contractor, make sure to request geo-textile fabric to give you the best results.