Creating Flowerbed!

Andy87 · #1 (**permalink**) 24-04-2008, 10:11 PM

Hi,

I am thinking of creating a new flowerbed. Do I have to put a liner and/or stones/pebbles underneath the topsoil? Are these necessary to help with the problem of weeds?

Thanks,

Andy.

wildflower · #2 (**permalink**) 25-04-2008, 04:10 AM

you dont need a liner unless you are making a pond or a bog garden .just weed the flower bed and keep on top of the weeds after planting.
or if you hate weeding then buy some ground cover plants.

tufftie · #3 (**permalink**) 25-04-2008, 06:18 AM

A liner wouldn't be good for deep rooting plants and stones and pebbles would effect your drainage too. None would help for most weeds anyway as they root near the surface. As said above just keep on top of the weeding or use ground cover plants

Cotham Marble · #4 (**permalink**) 25-04-2008, 08:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy87

I am thinking of creating a new flowerbed. Do I have to put a liner and/or stones/pebbles underneath the topsoil? Are these necessary to help with the problem of weeds? Andy.

Certainly not underneath the top soil. Perhaps what you are thinking of are weed suppressing membranes which are placed on top of the soil and can be planted through. And various types of gravel mixes are available to use as a mulch.

Neither membranes nor stone mulches are essential, unless you envisage difficulties with weeding, or you are concerned about moisture retention. It really depends on what plants you are using, the location, and soil type.

Choice of plants can greatly effect water needs and whether weeds are likely to be an issue - environmentally the best choices are plants that suit the location and which grow vigorously. Further careful choice can enhance wildlife value.

CM