Weed Fabric vs. Newspaper: Neither Is a Permanent Fix for Bermudagrass

Both weed fabric and newspaper (10 sheets thick) suppress bermudagrass temporarily. But both require annual maintenance.

The Hidden Work

• Fabric: Bermudagrass eventually grows through. Mulch on top decomposes into soil where weeds germinate. You must remove and replace mulch yearly—by hand, because rakes snag fabric.
• Newspaper: Decomposes in a year. Must be replaced annually.

Better Approach

Kill bermudagrass thoroughly with glyphosate before planting shrubs. Mulch deeply. Spot-treat escapes. Accept that vigilance, not barriers, wins long-term.