I tried some this summer since I was gone most of the time
The grass and weeds came right on through. I was pretty disappointed. Then potato bugs came and ate all the leaves off and some stems as well. Still got a decent crop of red Pontiacs though. Anybody had good luck with fabric?

Better luck with cardboard

I’ve used weed barrier fabric in my pumpkin patch with great success. Use a thicker fabric and you will have better results. The thin fabric that is listed as biodegradable is junk.

I’ve used the same weed barrier pieces for 3 years in a row and it still works fine. But after 3 years it is a little beat up and I replace it.

I like that idea.

I like the concept but must've got cheap junk at the farm supply store. Bomgaars here.

Yes and you can till it back in

I tried cardboard one year and it was a big mess. Loose pieces tear off every where. I must have done something wrong.

I do like the idea that it can be tilled into the soil when it falls apart.

How thick was the cardboard?

We've had good success using it.

The stuff we have is used at construction sites under the rip rap they put down in ditches.

Neighbor works bridge construction and brings home the trimmings. Good stuff.

Thick bed of grass clippings.

Was given a 12x200' roll of landscape fabric. I tried to like it.
Goog says do not grow food with it.
The strands are in every mower spindle.
The spikes are hiding in wait for the 11.25x28 tractor tires $$$
Going to use it for roof tear off ground tarps.

No luck

And I just bought a new spool for the stihl pro weed eater.
Guess what was wadded up in the old one.

I can imagine.

My daughter uses the heavier type of ground cover and has excellent luck with it, I have used the Menard's type that looks to be almost like tissue paper and hasn't been any use at all. Next year I'm going with the heavier version as hers really does work.

yea, had some left over from when they built the driveway, thick and heavy not like the stuff you get in a store.

I have used geo textile woven fabric for 25 years. Usually get 10-12 years out of it if I take it up in the fall. Just don't cut with a knife, us a torch to burn holes and cut to length. Stops the random strings everywhere. When orioles use it in their nest they last at least three years. Wouldn't garden without it. Mike

Great tip Mike, thanks.

This is the type I use. It runs about $80 for a 4X300 roll. Lasts for 15 years or so.

It does help to mulch over top of it with lawn clippings, especially if you care about looks.


I use raised beds now and I'm using more cover crops inside the beds to keep weeds down. An easy one is leaf lettuce.