Fabric Mulch

Fabric mulch will be used for weed control and moisture conservation for new plantings on all sites, particularly those with pronounced growing season moisture deficits or with competitive vegetation. Acceptable mulches, fabric, or mat materials must allow for water infiltration and air movement. Fabric mulches will be a minimum of three feet by three feet in size. Place fabric around planted stock. Place a minimum of a 6-inch “x” cut around the stock. Anchor fabric with staples or rock (no dirt). Rodent damage may occur if they are not properly secured.

The minimum fabric mulch specifications for weed control on new tree plantings are:

Woven Polypropylene Fabric

• Ultra Violet (UV) resistance: 5 year (minimum)
• Substrate weight: 3 ounces per square yard (minimum)
• Mullen Burst Strength: 325 pounds per square inch (minimum)
• Thickness: 15 mils (15/1,000 inch) (minimum)
• Must be permeable to water.

Note: Picture above planted in tilled site. Site should also be chemically sprayed to control competing vegetation around edge of fabric.

When organic mulches are used, the material shall be placed a minimum of four inches deep and in at least a three feet wide diameter around the seedling. Organic mulches should be kept at least six inches away from the main stem of trees and shrubs to minimize possible rodent damage.

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Last Modified: 08/08/2007