Thank you for your question. In looking at our historical records, I see that I assisted you twice in the past. Once regarding a household Rubber Plant, and secondly with a problem involving cucumber plants.

Two relevant points:

1). Please reconsider your choice of rock mulch. We have found that such mulch can lead to an elevation of soil temperature and great heat stress placed on plants. This has been especially true in the last couple of growing seasons. See:

https://www.johnson.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/agent-articles/miscellaneous/rock mulch a solution or a problem.html - :~:text=Rock mulch contributes to the,health as the mulch decomposes.

https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/yardandgardenreport/2016-06-30/mulch-madness

2). In our experience, the use of fabric creates far more problems than benefits. We have received many questions from other gardeners who are now removing the fabric that they installed a few years back. Essentially, this fabric inhibits the transport of water down to the roots of any plants present. This results in the slow death of planted shrubs. See:

https://blog.davey.com/pros-and-cons-of-landscape-fabric/ - :~:text=Not flexible%3A Each time you,soil to work their magic.

https://rockstoneandpebble.com/should-i-put-landscape-fabric-underneath-decorative-rocks/

In the strongest of terms, I would suggest that you invite two or three landscape designers to your property and obtain their opinions regarding mulch and fabric. Interview them. Get their thoughts and estimates. Have them develop a plan that acknowledges your aspirations. Ask them for references and check these out. Sometimes, a few dollars saved up front turn out not to be worth it when a longer view is taken. Relying upon social media may not be the best way to proceed. See (check out all pull-down menus):

https://extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/landscape-design

In summary, our experience is that simple wood mulch resting directly on the soil is the best way to go. Weeds may pop up through it from season to season. These can usually be dealt with by either pulling them out or the use of a pre-emergent herbicide.

Consider 2024 to be a season of planning, preparation, and assessment. 2025 will be a year of implementation.

Good luck. By all means, please get back to us with your further questions.