What are the main types of weed matting, and how do I choose the right one?

There are several types of weed matting, each suited to different garden conditions and goals. Choosing the right one depends on your planting plans, maintenance preferences, and the area you’re working in.

🌿 Main Types of Weed Matting

1. Woven Landscape Fabric

• Material: Polypropylene or polyester
• Appearance: Grid-like weave with small holes
• Best For: Long-term garden beds, shrubs, trees, gravel paths
• Pros:
  • Durable—can last 5+ years
  • Allows water and air to penetrate
  • Great for permanent or high-traffic areas
• Cons:
  • May fray when cut unless edges are sealed
  • Difficult to plant through unless pre-cut

2. Non-Woven Landscape Fabric

• Material: Felt-like polyester
• Appearance: Dense, cloth-like texture
• Best For: Under paving, erosion control, heavy-duty installations
• Pros:
  • Excellent weed suppression
  • Good for controlling water flow in slopes or drainage zones
• Cons:
  • Poor water permeability
  • Not ideal for areas with delicate plants

3. Biodegradable Weed Matting

• Material: Jute, coconut fibre, paper, or cornstarch-based
• Appearance: Natural and earth-toned
• Best For: Vegetable gardens, permaculture, short-term use
• Pros:
  • Fully compostable and eco-friendly
  • Supports soil ecology and root development
  • Easy to plant through
• Cons:
  • Shorter lifespan—usually 1 season
  • Needs replacement each year

4. Plastic Sheeting (Use with Caution)

• Material: Polyethylene plastic
• Best For: Temporary weed-kill preparation (solarisation)
• Pros:
  • Blocks all sunlight—excellent for weed kill
• Cons:
  • Does not allow water or air to reach soil
  • Can overheat soil and damage soil life

✅ How to Choose the Right Weed Matting

Consider your soil, plants, and garden goals when choosing a matting type. The right option will make your garden easier to manage and more productive.