[Snap Dragon]

I'm hoping to lift the last of my spuds tomorrow (if the slugs have left me any! :x ) and would like to cover the bed with something for the winter.

What would be better...

a) black plastic..... or
b) weed suppressing membrane?

Both are the same price per metre at our local garden centre so it's really down to whatever is the better option.

Any thoughts please   :?: :idea:

[Robin Redbreast]

an old carpet is cheaper  

[Snap Dragon]

an old carpet is cheaper  

We'll be replacing our bedroom carpets soon.... but not soon enough for the lottie!

[Ice]

If they are the same price I would go for the membrane as it lets water through.  Also, some lotties don't allow carpet so check first.

[Snap Dragon]

Thanks Ice... I had wondered if the membrane would be better from the perforated point of view...

I'll get measuring tomorrow!

[Yorkie]

Ice is right, membrane is far better for the soil than black plastic as it lets air and water through.

Please think carefully before using carpet.  Although suggested by some books, and still permitted on many sites, there are disadvantages which are now much more appreciated.

It generally release toxins / chemicals into the soil when the glues and colours break down.  As it disintegrates the bits go into the soil.  The weeds may grow through it (especially couch grass), matting it down.  And it's a nightmare to eventually dispose of.

Membrane is a far better option.  Or cardboard (though it doesn't last long and is bit messy as it composts down).

[compostqueen]

membrane     lets water through and your soil in good condition, the heavy duty stuff if rough and slugs don't like it    Plastic won't let water through so the soil underneath will dry out, and slugs will thrive under there

[woodburner]

How about field beans? I've not tried them yet but am going to use them on the lottie. They should keep down the weeds and improve the soil as well.

[Knoblauch]

The cheap membranes from eg Wilkos are fine if covered over with something like hedge clippings.