When it comes to gardening and landscaping, the choice of materials remains crucial for plant health and resource management. Among the many options available, geotextile felt, also known as bidim, stands out for its unique characteristics and many benefits. It helps in solving problems related to water management, soil erosion and weeds. Let's see in this article the key points to know about geotextile felt.
What is geotextile felt?
The felt garden geotextile is a non-woven fabric, usually made from synthetic fibers such as polyester or polypropylene. Its porous structure allows water and air to circulate while providing a barrier against plant roots and weeds. It is often used in civil engineering and landscaping projects. Available in different thicknesses and densities, geotextile fabric is easily adapted to various applications in gardening, drainage, construction and erosion prevention. It has become an essential material in many fields due to its exceptional properties.
What are the functions of geotextile felt?
Geotextile liner fulfills several essential functions for soil and water management in landfill projects. gardening and landscaping. First, it acts as a filter by retaining soil particles to allow water to flow freely. This filtration capacity effectively prevents clogging of the drainage system, particularly in retention basins or underground installations where the accumulation of sediment could harm the performance of the system.
The geotextile also facilitates water drainage and prevents sediment infiltration. This function is particularly useful in gardens, on sports fields or around building foundations. It helps prevent problems of excessive humidity and soil saturation, which tend to cause the degradation of plant roots and the deterioration of structures.
Geotextile fabric also plays an important role in soil stabilization, especially in areas prone to erosion. You can use it to support embankments and slopes, as it is able to hold the soil in place. This limits the risk of landslides and erosion. Geotextile fabric can even serve as a protective barrier for plant roots, protecting them from damage caused by rocks or other elements present in the soil. As a result, it promotes healthy and robust rooting, which is essential for healthy plant growth.
Why choose geotextile felt for your garden and crops?
Compared to other methods, geotextile felt brings more advantages. Unlike traditional mulch fabric, which can degrade over time for example, it is designed to withstand bad weather and wear. It lasts longer, making it a more profitable investment. Some manufacturers even offer guarantees of up to 25 years. In addition, geotextile film allows for efficient management of water and nutrients in the soil. It reduces the risk of fungal diseases and promotes better root development by preventing water accumulation. It is therefore the ideal solution for crops sensitive to excess moisture such as tomatoes and zucchini.
Adaptability is another significant advantage of geotextile. Whether for a vegetable garden, a flower bed or a complex landscaping project, it has no difficulty adapting to various applications. This is because it can be cut according to the needs of each project. In addition, it is suitable for both urban and rural environments. It is also an ecological option because by limiting the use of chemicals for weed control, geotextile felt contributes to a more sustainable approach to gardening and agriculture.
How to choose your geotextile felt?
The following criteria should be taken into consideration when choosing the right geotextile felt for your garden or crops:
The type of fibers
Polyester or polypropylene geotextile felts are the best choice if you are looking for materials that are resistant to decomposition and UV rays. They also have good permeability and excellent filtration. Make sure that the tarpaulin is designed for gardening, however, as some felts intended for construction may not be suitable.
The thickness and density of the felt
It is essential to choose a thickness and density that is appropriate for your project. For uses requiring significant drainage, it is preferable to recommend a thicker felt. On the other hand, for lighter uses such as mulching, a thinner geotextile film may be sufficient. It is also possible to find double-layer felts that provide both filtration and reinforced protection.
UV resistance of geotextile
Since this is an outdoor installation, it is best to check that the geotextile felt is treated to resist ultraviolet rays before purchasing it. This parameter has an impact on its longevity as well as its effectiveness. An untreated fabric risks degrading quickly under the effect of the sun. However, premature degradation will inevitably compromise the protection of the soil and lead to additional costs to replace or repair the installation.
The dimensions of geotextile felt
The dimensions of the geotextile film must naturally be suitable for the surface area of your space. In general, the rolls are available in several widths and lengths to facilitate the choice and installation. It is important to measure the area concerned before purchasing the geotextile to avoid waste or shortage.
The price of geotextile
Don't hesitate to compare prices based on the characteristics of the tarps. It is strongly recommended to prioritize quality no matter what, even if the price is slightly higher. This way, you will have a high-performance felt that will remain intact for a long time. In any case, the initial cost can be offset by the savings made in the long term, knowing that you will have a highly resistant, easy to maintain and durable installation.