When it comes to landscaping with river rocks, a key consideration is what to put underneath them to ensure your design remains intact and aesthetically pleasing. One popular choice is landscape fabric, specifically non-woven or spun types. These fabrics serve several important functions in a rock garden or pathway, helping to maintain the overall look and functionality of the space.
One of the primary benefits of using landscape fabric under river rocks is that it creates a barrier to prevent the rocks from sinking into the soil over time. This can be especially important in high-traffic areas where the rocks may experience more pressure and movement.
Additionally, landscape fabric helps to keep air and water flowing through the soil, which can be beneficial for plant health and overall drainage. By providing a barrier between the rocks and the soil, the fabric helps to minimize issues with water pooling or becoming trapped, which can lead to drainage problems.
Using landscape fabric under river rocks can also help to suppress weeds and other unwanted vegetation from growing through the rocks. This can be particularly helpful in areas where you want a clean, low-maintenance look without having to constantly pull weeds or apply herbicides.
When installing landscape fabric under river rocks, it’s important to ensure that the fabric is securely anchored and overlapped to provide maximum coverage and protection. Properly securing the fabric will help to prevent it from shifting or tearing, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or weather conditions.
Before placing landscape fabric under river rocks, it’s a good idea to prepare the area by removing any existing vegetation, rocks, or debris. This will help to create a clean, level surface for the fabric and rocks to sit on, ensuring a more uniform and professional-looking final result.
It’s also important to consider the thickness of the landscape fabric when choosing the right type for your project. Thicker fabrics are generally more durable and provide better protection against weeds and soil erosion, making them a good choice for long-term landscaping projects.
In addition to landscape fabric, some gardeners may choose to use a layer of sand or gravel underneath river rocks to further enhance drainage and stability. These materials can help to create a more solid base for the rocks to sit on, especially in areas with softer or uneven soil.
When placing landscape fabric under river rocks, be sure to cut holes or slits in the fabric to allow for proper drainage and airflow. This will help prevent water from becoming trapped under the rocks, which can lead to issues such as mold, mildew, or root rot in plants.
Overall, the decision of what to put under river rocks for landscaping will depend on the specific needs and conditions of your garden or pathway. Landscape fabric is a popular choice for its versatility and effectiveness in creating a barrier against weeds, soil erosion, and other potential issues.
By taking the time to properly prepare the area, choose the right materials, and install them carefully, you can create a beautiful and functional rock garden or pathway that will stand the test of time and enhance the overall appeal of your outdoor space.
