JennyAug 7, 2023

Hello gardening experts! I am a novice in need of some guidance. In my backyard, I have a large area of river rock along my fence line, under which is a layer of landscaping fabric (to prevent weeds I guess, although it really doesn’t). I am slowly redoing my yard to be more eco/climate-appropriate, and want to plant native perennials in those areas…but haven’t the foggiest idea how to do that…

(1/2)

#Gardening #Garden #Landscaping

Show threadJennyAug 7, 2023

Can anyone help me understand:

1) can I scatter seeds directly in the rocks, or should the rocks be cleared/removed in favor of a bed of soil/mulch?

2) should the landscaping fabric be removed? Leave the fabric and just add soil/plant above above the fabric? Leave the fabric but cut small holes in it for seeds to be planted underneath (and hope they grow through the holes)?

I feel these might be basic, silly question, but would be so appreciative for any tips/tricks and suggestions. 💚

(2/2)

Show threadmiasoradaAug 7, 2023
@tiamat271 If you want to grow stuff over it you can probs put a layer of soil and compost, and then some mulch over it, and whatever takes root may establish roots right through the fabric. I'm a big fan of leaf mulch and animal poop compost, heck you could probably find some neighbors somewhere with some free fill you can add to fill out the soil.
Show threadJennyAug 7, 2023
@miasorada I didn’t realize the roots might be able to go through the fabric, that’s good to know! (and would be a lot less work!)
Show threadmiasorada
@tiamat271 Might depend on the fabric. This kind will fall apart:
https://www.masseys-diy.co.uk/product/weed-control-fabric-landscape-fabric-1m-x-15m/
but this kind might not:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/4-x-100ft-Premium-5oz-Pro-Garden-Weed-Barrier-Landscape-Fabric-Weed-Cloth-Easy-Setup-Commercial-Ground-Cover/886602019
Weed Control Fabric – Landscape Fabric (1m x 15m) - Masseys

Weed Control Fabric - Landscape Fabric (1m x 15m) - Multi-purpose lightweight weed suppressant. 1m wide 15m long

Masseys
Aug 7, 2023 at 2:58amWeb
Show threadJennyAug 7, 2023
@miasorada Hmm…I have no idea what kind I have. Might be safer to remove it then, rather than risk the roots being impeded and needing to start from the beginning again. Appreciate your insight!