Landscaping fabric to buy - Ask Extension
What is the best landscaping fabric to buy to prevent weeds?
Knowledgebase
Landscaping fabric to buy #928085
Asked April 11, 2026, 1:04 PM EDT
What is the best landscaping fabric to buy to prevent weeds?
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Diane,
If you plan to use the landscaping fabric with plants, I would advise you against using it. The landscape fabric usually doesn't prevent weeds (weed seeds typically settle on top) and the pore spaces clog over time, so oxygen and water cannot make it to plant roots.
Instead, use a thicker layer of mulch. Adding 5" of organic mulch will not only help retain soil moisture, it will prevent many weeds. The mulch will settle to a depth of 3-4".
If you prefer to use rock, you would apply it at the same depth. Use smaller stones, like squeegee or pea gravel.
Landscape fabric can be used under pathways, where you aren't supporting plant health.
If you plan to use the landscaping fabric with plants, I would advise you against using it. The landscape fabric usually doesn't prevent weeds (weed seeds typically settle on top) and the pore spaces clog over time, so oxygen and water cannot make it to plant roots.
Instead, use a thicker layer of mulch. Adding 5" of organic mulch will not only help retain soil moisture, it will prevent many weeds. The mulch will settle to a depth of 3-4".
If you prefer to use rock, you would apply it at the same depth. Use smaller stones, like squeegee or pea gravel.
Landscape fabric can be used under pathways, where you aren't supporting plant health.
