When it comes to landscaping with river rocks, one crucial aspect to consider is what to put underneath them. Many professional landscapers recommend using landscape fabric as a base layer for river rocks to achieve the best results. There are several reasons why this is beneficial.
Benefits of Using Landscape Fabric Under River Rocks
1. Prevents Sinking: Placing landscape fabric under river rocks creates a barrier that helps prevent the rocks from sinking into the soil over time. This ensures a more stable and long-lasting landscaping feature.
2. Enhances Drainage: By using landscape fabric, you can maintain proper air and water flow underneath the rocks. This helps prevent waterlogging and drainage issues that can occur in your landscaping.
3. Weed Suppression: Landscape fabric acts as a weed barrier, inhibiting weed growth between the river rocks. This reduces the need for frequent weeding and helps maintain a cleaner and more polished look.
4. Easy Maintenance: With landscape fabric under the river rocks, maintenance becomes more manageable. It keeps the rocks in place and minimizes the chances of them shifting or scattering over time, reducing the need for frequent adjustments.
Choosing the Right Landscape Fabric
When selecting landscape fabric for use under river rocks, it is essential to opt for a high-quality non-woven or spun fabric. These types of landscape fabrics are durable and provide excellent support for the rocks above, ensuring long-term stability.
Installation Process
The process of installing landscape fabric under river rocks involves several steps. Firstly, clear the area of any debris or existing vegetation. Next, lay the landscape fabric evenly across the designated space, ensuring there are no gaps or overlaps.
Once the fabric is in place, carefully position the river rocks on top, making sure they cover the entire area. You can arrange the rocks in a pattern or design of your choice, knowing that the landscape fabric will help hold them in position.
Finally, secure the edges of the landscape fabric with landscaping pins to prevent shifting. This step is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the installation and ensuring the rocks stay in place over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using landscape fabric under river rocks for landscaping offers numerous benefits, including preventing sinking, enhancing drainage, weed suppression, and easy maintenance. By selecting the right fabric and following the proper installation process, you can create a beautiful and durable landscaping feature that will stand the test of time.
