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Frequently Asked Questions for DuPont Weed Control Fabrics

What are DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics?
DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are scientifically engineered non-woven fabrics manufactured in a unique patented process in which continuous filaments of polypropylene are spun into a multidirectional web that is thermally and mechanically bonded. This process results in a uniform product with superior strength and durability, and excellent properties for air and water permeability.

What are the recommended uses for DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics?
DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are used as a physical barrier to help control weeds in flower beds, around trees and shrubs, stone walkways, under decks, behind retaining walls, etc. They act as a separation layer between the soil and upper layers of top-dress mulch, and also serve as a stabilization layer, to help reduce soil erosion. In addition, they may be used as a filtration layer around perforated drainpipes to help prevent soil clogging.

What are the benefits of using DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics?
Excellent properties for permeability allow water, air and nutrients to pass through the fabrics, while helping to prevent most weeds from growing through. This helps promote a soil environment conducive to healthier plant growth, while providing low maintenance weed control. DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics’ superior properties for strength and durability assure long-term performance and satisfaction.

How should DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics be installed?
For best results, thoroughly remove and/or kill any existing weeds from the installation area. The use of a post-emergence systemic herbicide may be required and/or a pre-emergent herbicide may be desired for additional weed control (Always consult the herbicide manufacturer’s product label for recommended and approved uses). Roll out the fabric (either side up or down) and secure with DuPont™ Landscape Anchor Pins at 3–5 ft. intervals. For existing plants, cut the fabric and fit around the base of the plant and leave sufficient room for future growth for new plantings, cut an “X” in the fabric large enough to allow planting of the root ball. Remove any loose soil from on top of the fabric. Finally, cover the fabric with three to four inches of mulch to further anchor and protect the fabric.

Will DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics prevent all weed growth?
While DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are effective against most weeds, landscape fabrics, in general, are not 100% weed proof. Perennial weeds that are especially difficult to control perennial weeds, like bermudagrass or nutsedge, may require additional weed control measures. Further, weed seed germination in mulch on top of the fabric is not prevented.

Can herbicides be used with the fabric?
Yes. The use of a herbicide may be desired for improved performance under difficult-to-control weed conditions or for weeds that have germinated in the mulch on top of the fabric. Be sure to consult and thoroughly read the herbicide manufacturer’s product label for recommended and approved uses.

What are DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics made of?
DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are made from 100% polypropylene with embedded colorant and UV stabilizers.

How long will DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics last?
DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are UV stabilized and, in the absence of direct sunlight, will last many years. Depending on the style, DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are guaranteed to last 15–25 years. Refer to the product package for specific warranty information. (warranty)

Does it matter which side of the fabric is laid against the soil?
No, either side is correct and equally effective.

Water appears to run off and not through the fabric. Is the fabric really permeable to water?
Absolutely! The fabric must be “wetted-in” to overcome water surface tension. Once the fabric has been installed on soil and covered with a top-dress mulch, the fabric will readily “wet-in” and allow water passage.

Can I fertilize my plants through the fabric?
Yes. Any liquid or water-soluble fertilizer will readily pass through and will not adversely affect the fabric.

Are DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics safe to use around water and/or a fish pond?
Yes. DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are environmentally friendly and will not contaminate the water or harm fish.

Are DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics harmful to children or pets?
No. DuPont™ Weed Control Fabrics are not harmful inert and will not cause adverse affects to children or pets. Be sure, however, to dispose of product packaging, particularly plastic wrapping, to prevent possible suffocation or ingestion by children or pets.

How much overlap is required between overlapping lengths of fabric?
In general, 3-4 inches is sufficient.

What type of top-dress mulch is recommended?
Any type of organic (wood) or inorganic (stone or rubber) mulch may be used. For long-term durability and performance, 3-4 inches of mulch is recommended.

Creative uses for DuPontâ„¢ Garden Products Weed Control Fabric.

 

DuPont™ Garden Products Weed Control Fabric is a versatile, performance oriented fabric that provides maximum benefits to your home and garden. While it offers environmentally friendly and effective solutions to weed control for your garden, there are many uses that you may not have thought of yourself:

  • Use it under decks, driveways and sidewalks, as well as patio stones and pavers.
  • Anywhere weeds can poke their way through, destroying all of your hard work.
  • Line planters and baskets — Cut the fabric to size and then line the inside of your baskets and pots. You’ll keep the soil inside the planter and off of patio floors and walls, while also allowing for proper drainage.