Ground/landscape sheeting to control weeds
When it comes to preventing weed growth, there are many types of ground sheeting available on the market today. Unfortunately, many of these products are too thin, allowing light to pass through, which enables more invasive weeds like ground elder to thrive. If you’re working on a bank or a steep slope, using the right type of ground sheeting is essential for success.
The best choice for effective weed control is a woven ground sheeting that prevents any light from getting through. This type of sheeting comes in different widths and can be easily cut to the desired size with scissors. It’s particularly suitable for use on slopes, as it helps to stabilize the soil while suppressing weeds.
Preparing and Installing Ground Sheeting on a Slope
When laying ground sheeting on a bank or steep slope, it’s important to overlap the sheets by about 100mm to ensure complete coverage and prevent gaps where weeds might sneak through. Secure the sheeting with pegs to keep it in place, especially on steep areas where gravity can easily pull the material out of position before it’s covered. While you can buy specially-made pegs, they can be expensive if you need a lot. Instead, consider buying a roll of wire and cutting it into 200mm lengths to create your own pegs, which can be pushed through the sheeting for a cost-effective solution.
Tool Station Landscape Sheeting and Screw Fix Wire for Pegs are both great options for materials that can help get the job done.
To further ensure success, consider spreading a general garden fertilizer, such as Growmore, in the areas where planting will occur. A good rule of thumb is about a handful per square meter. Fertilizing before installing the sheeting ensures that nutrients are available to your plants right from the start.
If you’re planting on a bank or slope, it’s also a good idea to install a soaker hose beneath the sheeting. This will help keep plants adequately watered, especially on slopes where water can run off quickly. The Hozelock Soaker Pipe is particularly useful because it allows you to regulate water flow, ensuring an even distribution along the planted areas.
Covering and Finishing Touches
Once the sheeting is secured, cover it with bark mulch or another type of ground covering. This will not only make the area more aesthetically pleasing but will also help weigh down the sheeting, adding stability on a slope while providing extra weed suppression. With these steps, your bank or steep slope will be well-prepared for planting, with effective weed control and minimal maintenance required.