Plastic in the Landscape:
I see it time and time again where plastic was used under gravel when the landscaping was done. This dose make a good barrier but that is the problem it is a barrier.
- no air flow
- no water flow
- over heats the ground
Yes I have seen plants growing with plastic around them and they sometimes survive for several years. However, sooner or later the plastic damages and kills the plants it is around.
Landscape mat is a much better option and will not hurt the plants because it breaths while still providing a cover.
Every year I see landscapes where trees or shrubs are dying and they have been there for several years with the plastic around them. The plants finally say enough is enough and they start to decline. Please DO NOT USE PLASTIC IN THE LANDSCAPE. If you have plastic in your landscape rake back the gravel and remove the plastic. Replace the plastic with landscape cloth or just rake the gravel back.
Sidney Gordon, Ag Agent
