Dream gardens sometimes face unexpected hurdles, from invasive species to soil issues, and landscape fabric can add to the challenges.
On the subreddit r/arborists, a Redditor shared troubling photos highlighting the impact of landscape fabric on trees. In the images, elongated roots tightly wrap around a maple tree, with the original poster attributing the issue to the presence of the fabric.
Photo Credit: Reddit
“After removing the landscape fabric, I see a lot of thick roots running along the surface of the dirt just under or intertwined with the fabric,” the concerned Redditor explained, expressing concern over the abnormal root growth.
While landscape fabric is often used to combat erosion, its use may have unintended consequences, including releasing plastic particles into the soil. However, there are alternative methods to achieve a low-maintenance garden without such drawbacks.
Native plants, adapted to their environments, offer a sustainable solution, requiring less water, fertilizer, and mowing. Not only do they save time and money, but they also contribute to water conservation efforts. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, watering a typical American lawn for just 20 minutes daily would consume the equivalent of over 800 showers.
To enhance the flourishing of the maple tree, the original poster (OP) might consider incorporating clover lawns, buffalo grass, or xeriscaping into the landscape. There’s a growing recognition of the benefits of native plants, as evidenced by Manhattan’s Roosevelt Island, which plans to introduce 1,000 native plants across a 2,700 square-foot area, as reported by the Guardian in March.
In response to the OP’s predicament, one Redditor suggested using a layer of good-quality topsoil, about an inch or two thick, to protect the roots from exposure to the sun. They cautioned against relying solely on mulch, which could easily be blown or washed away.
Another user echoed the OP’s concerns, noting the likely role of landscape fabric in the rapid growth of the roots.
Fact Checked, Written, and Published by Kevin Rodrigues
Kevin is the founder of Gardening Mentor, a website that aims to teach people to grow their own food in a limited space. As a self-taught gardener, Kevin has spent several years growing plants and creating gardening content on the website. He is certified in Home Horticulture and Organic Gardening from Oregon State University. He has a Post Graduate Diploma in Horticulture and Landscape Gardening from Mumbai University.
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