Fabric containers can be used in the ground or above ground. When used above ground roots remain mostly in the bag except for those that grow through the fabric at the bottom. When used in the ground (see tree above), roots grow outside the fabric but they are mostly girdled by the fabric which prevents them from getting too large. Roots outside the fabric and the bag are removed from the tree when the tree is harvested.
Any mulch or soil on top of the landscape fabric can support weed growth, a problem that is especially difficult to handle when weeds take root through it. This is particularly problematic with perennial weeds. Once their root systems have penetrated the landscape fabric, they can be almost impossible to pull out.
Landscape fabric is made up of thin strands of plastic that are woven together and allow water and air through it. In heavy rain events, landscape fabric will drain water slower than usual, but it does not entirely stop water from draining.
If you have ever pulled up old landscape fabric, you will see that the structure of the soil has deteriorated because it hasn't received any additional organic matter. Fabric also prevents earthworms, insects, and beneficial fungi from moving through different layers of the soil and breaking down organic matter.
Permeability - At the store, landscape fabric usually can be found in two forms: 1) a woven fabric created by weaving thin strips of plastic and 2) a spun fabric created using polyester fibers. These landscape fabrics are somewhat porous in both cases, meaning they allow water and air to move through.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions when mixing or applying the fertilizer. A well-installed landscape fabric will allow liquid to soak through the fabric and provide water and nutrients to plants in the area.
Available evidence suggests that root growth and penetration may be impeded but not prevented entirely. Only geotextiles with very small apertures or effective pore sizes will function as effective root barriers. Several techniques can be adopted to improve or facilitate root penetration.
You're right - a weed barrier fabric will keep the bulbs from growing through so in the area where you plant bulbs, don't use the weed barrier. Instead, use a 3 inch thick layer of organic mulch such as compost over the top of the bed.
Introduction: My name is Geoffrey Lueilwitz, I am a zealous, encouraging, sparkling, enchanting, graceful, faithful, nice person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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