I've been helping clean up my grandmother's neglected flower garden, which includes a sizable ground garden lined with flat rocks. This area has been tricky due to landscaping fabric beneath the soil, and I'm facing a major weed problem with grass and other plants growing between the flowers she wants to keep. I've had success with the raised flower beds by replacing the root-dense soil, but this ground garden is challenging. The fabric is tough; the shovel isn't getting through, and the grass is thick. Should I just keep pushing my shovel down until I break through? Would putting more fabric on top work to block sunlight, or should I resort to weed killer? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Instead of adding more fabric, consider using cardboard or organic matter to block sunlight. If you can remove the roots and the old plastic entirely, you'll probably have an easier time getting the soil prepped for new plants. Just ignoring the fabric isn't a great idea if the weeds are struggling so much!
Removing the fabric entirely is your best bet. It’s likely counterproductive at this point, causing more weeds to thrive. A utility knife will help you cut it away quickly. Once it’s gone, your garden will be much easier to manage!
Thanks, sounds like the toughest but most effective way to go about it. I’ll gear up with good gloves and get to work this weekend!
Try using a utility knife to carefully cut the fabric around the plants you want to save. It might make it easier to manage the weeds without damaging the good stuff.
Yeah, sounds like what I have to do.
I thought about adding a temporary layer to block light for a week or two, but it seems like those roots will still be strong. I found out there are wood chips under the fabric too, so it could turn into a big job!