Posted by What is Tarpaulin and Why is it Useful for Landscaping?
Tarpaulin, commonly called tarps, are heavy-duty sheets made from fabric or plastic materials that are versatile tools for landscapers. Tarps function as a protective barrier from elements like rain, wind, snow, and sunlight that can damage plants and harm soil quality. Some key benefits of using Tarpaulin in landscaping include:
Insulation
Tarps help insulate soil and plant roots from extreme temperature fluctuations that occur with weather changes. This protects vulnerable plants.
Erosion control
By covering exposed soil, tarps prevent topsoil from being blown or washed away during storms or high winds. This protects investments made in landscaping.
Moisture retention
Certain Tarpaulin Sheet is made to lock in moisture and reduce evaporation. This allows landscapers to conserve water and protect moisture-dependent plants.
Weed suppression
Heavy Duty Tarpaulin can be laid over bare soil to obstruct sunlight and prevent new weeds from sprouting.
Project protection
Tarps safeguard existing landscaping installations from damage when working on adjacent areas by shielding plants, turf, and soil.
Types of Tarpaulins for Landscaping
Plastic Tarps
Low-density PE tarps are convenient for temporary use as they are inexpensive and lightweight and roll up easily for storage. However, they may need to be replaced yearly. High-density PE versions last 2-3 years and have a good balance of strength and value. They are excellent for erosion control and shielding soil. Low-density PP tarps provide a sturdier moisture barrier than PE while maintaining flexibility.
Fabric Tarps
Vinyl-coated polyester tarps have a PVC backing for water resistance. At 8-10 oz/yd weight, they can last 5+ years but are heavyweight and stiffer than plastic. Solution-dyed polyester tarps are permeable yet fade-resistant. The 6-8 oz/yd weight makes them more flexible than vinyl coatings. Good for moisture control.
Using Tarpaulins to Protect Landscape
Tarps can safeguard valuable landscaping investments from an array of weather hazards:
Protecting Plants from Frost and Freezing Conditions
Applying tarps over at-risk plants provides insulation to prevent damage from frost. Tarps trap radiant heat near the soil surface, creating a microclimate around roots.
For anchoring tarps securely during storms, use lawn staples or rocks placed at corners and edges. Always remove coverings during the day to prevent overheating tender growth underneath.
Protecting Plants from Excessive Rain or Flooding
In heavy rain events, tarps can be draped over plants as a temporary shield. Laying tarps at a 15° angle allows water runoff to drain below the tarp. The stake edges down firmly to hold the tarp in place.
Tarps are also useful to protect sensitive plants from flooding. Elevate the tarp perimeter on sandbags to create an enclosed space above flood levels.
Protecting Drought-Sensitive Plants
In drought conditions, landscape fabric or high-density plastic tarps laid as a top mulch layer help retain soil moisture below. Newly planted trees and shrubs benefit greatly from the water conservation effects of tarps.
Using Tarpaulins to Protect Turf
Tarps are a must-have item during installation and renovations to shield existing landscaping:
Protecting Grass
When working near turf areas, lay tarps down first to prevent heavy equipment from compacting and rutting the soil below. Secure tarps at the edges with sandbags to anchor them.
Temporary Erosion Control
After clearing land or stripping topsoil during a grading project, cover stockpiles and expose the earth with tarps. This inhibits weed growth and stops valuable soil nutrients from washing away during rain events.
Winterizing Landscape Beds
In colder regions, cover dormant perennial and annual beds before the ground freezes with tarps to guard them against excess snow buildup that may damage plant crowns. Label tarps to remember bed locations in spring.
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