Expert: John-Paul Friend - 5/7/2004

Question
I have a rock garden and I'm trying to keep the weed out of it.  Last year someone told me to put 3 layers of newspapers all over except over my plants of course.  Then what I did is covered the newspaper with mulch so you did not see the newspaper.  But during the winter and now newspaper is making a mess in my yard.  I know you can buy a black type of plastic or tarp instead of newpapers.  I have some clear plastic at home I'm I able to use that or ?  I do appreciate your help.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi, and thanks for your question. The idea behind covering the bare soil is to prevent light from getting to any weeds, which stops them from growing. You can buy a geotextile from a garden or hardware store. This is a breathable material which allows the rain to reach the soil but not the light, therefore preventing growth. It can be expensive however. In the past, I have used black plastic builders membrane as a cheaper alternative. This is just a thick black plastic sheeting. Lay it over the Rock feature and cut cross shaped holes in it to allow the existing plants to grow through it and recieve water and light. Bury it under a mulch again and that should last for a good while. Thanks again for your question and if you have any other queries, please get in touch.