Hello, Donna,

Thank you for this question! Yes, there are many different opinions out there regarding the use of landscape fabric. Generally, landscape fabric in a flower garden can limit the growth of weeds, but it's not a long-term solution... the fabric will be effective for a couple of years at most. Keep in mind that weeds can still germinate and grow in any soil or mulch on top of the fabric, and if you need to remove the fabric to clear out any plants in your flower bed, it can be very difficult work. 

You might consider an organic mulch on top of your garden soil as an alternative to landscape fabric, as well as regular weeding to control the growth of any undesired plants. 

If you'd like to read further about the pros and cons of landscape fabric, you might have a look at these articles: 

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/starting-a-raised-bed-garden

https://extension.unh.edu/blog/2019/05/should-i-use-landscape-fabric-keep-weeds-out-my-perennial-garden

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2021-06-25-disadvantages-landscape-fabric

Thanks very much,

Ilse Schweitzer