Talk of The Villages Florida - View Single Post - Pine Straw or Bark over White Stone?
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Old 12-01-2022, 05:25 PM
Pondboy Pondboy is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Scbang View Post
I have front and back yard covered with white stone. Since it's been a long time, weeds are growing thru the PVC cover beneath. I have been hiring landscaper for weeding and shrub trimming but I have a feeling these guys are not regularly spraying and I have reservations for those chemicals they have been spraying even when they do their job.
So, can I cover my white stone with Pine Straws or Pine Barks and would they prevent any weeds growing? What's the difference between 14" and 9" pine straws? What would be the best option to prevent weeds if not pine barks/straws? My neighbor installed artificial turf but I really don't like anything artificial and I think they are much more costly..

Cheers!
Weed Seeds are airborne. They settle where they will; on mulch, pine straw or stone. Weed barriers don’t work against these type of weeds. If you don’t like the chemicals, try using a DIY vinegar based weed killer. (You can google various recipes).

Pine Straw is available in long leaf or regular….at the end of the day they do the same thing ; retain moisture and cool the roots of plants from the scorching sun. Not sure they get to 14”….

Pine Straw and Mulch are beneficial. I can’t see why you could not cover the rocks. They do bring their own issues as the fade quickly and might harbor termites. Mulch might float away during heavy rains. But, weeds will still grow in this medium.

Live with the rock but do your own weed spraying. It’s the easier and cheaper alternative to all of the options.