The history of plastic-based landscape fabric goes back a long way. to the 1970s and was once thought to be the perfect solution to prevent weeds.

professional gardeners And master gardeners We have consistently found that this fabric, originally developed for agriculture, actually causes more harm than good. But many DIY landscapers are still unaware of its risks and harms.

A new homeowner asked r/Arborists Followers were asked for advice on whether to remove plastic from around the roots of a large tree in their garden.

The homeowner explained that they wanted to remove the rocks at the base of the tree and decide what to replace them with.

“There is plastic around the roots and we wanted to know if this plastic needed to be dug up and removed,” the homeowner said. wrote. “Also, might mulching around the base be a good option?”

Landscape fabric is a waste of money and does not work effectively at controlling weeds or promoting healthy soil or water movement.

Arborists agree that plastic fabric can be detrimental to a tree’s health because it restricts natural growth and causes a variety of problems. long roots to grow along the surface. Material releases small plastic particles It mixes with the soil and affects soil health and even human health. It also traps moisture in the tree trunk, which attracts pests and causes rot.

Better options than plastic cloth are organic mulch and inclusion of native plants in the region. However, the landlord avoid creating mulch volcanoes to prevent unnatural root growth, stem rot and diseases.

Reddit users shared their opinions about the homeowner’s tree and how it could be improved from the previous owner’s setup.

What is the most difficult part of taking care of your garden?

Mowing the lawn

Controlling weeds

Keeping pests away

I don’t have a garden

Click on your choice to see the results and give your opinion

“You’ll definitely want to take that plastic off,” one Reddit user wrote. wrote in the comments.

“For mulching, make sure you use wood/plant-based mulch,” one Redditor wrote. recommended. “Also, be sure to start mulching a few inches away from the trunk (don’t pile mulch on top.).”

Another Redditor recommended: “Remove rocks, remove plastic, remove excess soil to expose root overhang, and add 2-4” of mulch to entire area under tree. Watering too deep.”

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