Weed Mats Beneath Mulch Defeat Benefits of Organic Mulch

Although weed mats can help create a barrier to ward off evasive weeds, We DO NOT RECOMMEND using a them or other fabric beneath mulch. Using a weed mat or other fabric beneath organic mulch defeats many of the benefits of organic mulch by placing a barrier between the soil and the mulch. You want the organic matter to break down and enrich the soil with nutrients and organic matter.

A fabric prevents this enrichment from taking place and prevents beneficial organisms such as earthworms from proliferating in the fabric-covered soil. Fabric-covered soil depletes the soil of organic matter because it acts as a barrier to organic mulch and leaf litter that adds to soil organic matter.

Soil organic matter enhances the soil biota, the microorganisms, that are so important to plant health. If applied as recommended, Sweet Peet not only prevents weeds by smothering them, but also creates an inhospitable to surface weeds due to its unique cat-ion exchange. Make sure the beds are free of weeds before starting any project – very important!

USE AN ORGANIC WEED PREVENTOR

After planting perennials, mulch your beds with 3 to 4 inches of Sweet Peet. This is an important step because the thickness of the mulch is the key to suppressing weeds. If weeds are exposed to sunlight, they’ll grow. But if they can’t get any sunlight, they’ll be smothered.

Once Sweet Peet mulch is in place, you can plant annuals directly into Sweet Peet. Doing so will cut down on any damage done to the young, tender plants.

Remember, Sweet Peet isn’t a magic cure for weeds. Many weed seeds are carried by the wind or on birds. When they land in the soil, weeds will grow. Keep your eye out for weed growth, and promptly pull them out.

REMEMBER, don’t be tempted by the ease of using a weed mat or fabric below the mulch. Turning to these products is actually counter-productive to the benefits that organic mulch offers. If you place a barrier between the mulch and soil, the organic matter in the mulch won’t break down or enrich the soil with its nutrients.

GARDEN AND LANDSCAPING TIP

Never, ever put polyethylene plastic over the soil above roots. Plastic will block both air and water and can cause serious problems for a tree if enough of the root zone is covered.