Cheap or Free Alternatives for Landscaping Fabric

We recently spent a considerable amount of money on landscaping fabric for a backyard project. Normally, I use cheap or free alternatives for landscaping fabric. In this instance we had to use it. We were creating a pond area that will be a backyard fixture for many years. For temporary projects, like yearly gardening, I prefer cheap or free alternatives. Landscaping fabric can be pricey. It hardly seems worth the expense for something you'll be removing and replacing annually. That's when these alternate solutions come in handy.

Cardboard is an easy, free alternative for landscaping fabric. I use it to keep weeds down in the garden. I find it very useful for creating temporary vegetable garden paths. I simply cut and open old cardboard boxes and trim to fit the path. Then, I place mulch over the cardboard. Nobody knows it's there and it keeps weeds down beautifully. At the end of the year, it's easy to remove. Most of the mulch can be saved for next year too. Simply pick up the cardboard and pour the mulch into bags.

An old shower curtain is another free alternative for landscaping fabric. It can be used under gravel or river rock in small areas. It keeps out all weeds very effectively. No more spraying chemicals all over your gravel. It lasts for several seasons. Since it doesn't breathe, it's best used under rocks, rather than under plants. Plants need proper drainage. Since the shower curtain is water-proof, it doesn't allow for that.

Some other rock bed solutions:

*Heavy duty drop cloth: No old shower curtains hanging around? Drop cloth must be purchased (unless you have some left from your last project) Still, it's cheaper than landscaping fabric.

*Tarp: Costs a bit more than drop cloth, but worth the expense. Why? It's strong enough to pick up with the gravel on it, should you tire of the rocked in look. No more digging down through six inches of soil to remove small rock. We had to do this when we moved into our new home. It's no picnic, believe me.

Looking for a breathable alternative for landscaping fabric? Have you considered using an old sheet? I've done this in flower beds with very good results. It keeps the weeds out and holds moisture in. It certainly allows for drainage just as well. It isn't as easy to place, cut or shape, since it doesn't roll out. Still, it's a great free alternative for landscaping fabric that works in varied situations.

More from this contributor:

Putt-Putt: Landscaping for Your Backyard Mini-Golf Course

Five Tips for No-Fuss Home Landscaping

Landscaping for New Homeowners on a Budget

Source:

Personal Experience