Why Burlap Squares for Landscaping Beat Plastic Mulch

Introduction

“Two hours into a midsummer planting job, my crew realized the box of plastic mulch we’d relied on for years had been left at the warehouse. Rather than halt the job, we grabbed a bundle of burlap squares for landscaping that the nursery manager kept “for emergencies.” By sundown the beds were covered, the weeds were smothered, and the client loved the natural look. Six months later, we returned to find the burlap half-decomposed into nutrient-rich humus—and zero plastic to haul away. That project convinced me this natural fabric belongs in every contractor’s truck.

Today’s purchasing managers, contractors, and distributors face similar pressures: meet sustainability targets, control costs, and still deliver bullet-proof performance. Switching from plastic mulch to burlap squares is a small change with outsized benefits.

Quick stat: U.S. construction sites generated ≈280 million lb of plastic mulch waste in 2024 (EPA, 2025). Replacing a quarter of that with burlap would prevent nearly 70 million lb of plastic entering landfills.

What Are Burlap Squares for Landscaping?

Key Material Properties of Natural Jute Burlap

• Plant-based fibers spun from fast-growing jute crops grown without intensive fertilizers.

• Breathable weave moderates soil temperature within ±2 °C (Ohio State Univ. Horticulture Dept., 2024).

• Natural lignin and tannins deter some soil-borne pests, cutting chemical inputs.

Common Sizes and Specifications for Job Sites

Environmental Edge: Burlap vs. Plastic Mulch

Waste Reduction & Biodegradability

A 2024 lifecycle study by the European Bioplastics Council reported that jute burlap decomposes completely within 8–14 months, returning organic matter to soil, whereas polyethylene mulch can persist >400 years (EBC, 2024).

“Switching our erosion-control program to burlap eliminated 90 % of post-project plastic waste.”
—Carlos Méndez, Project Manager, GreenEarth Contracting (interview, March 2025)

Soil Health Benefits Proven by Field Trials

In a 2025 USDA-NRCS bulletin evaluating mulches on sandy loam, plots covered with burlap squares showed 22 % higher earthworm activity and a 1.1 % rise in soil organic carbon after one year compared with plastic (USDA-NRCS, 2025). Healthier soils translate into better water retention and stronger root systems.

Performance & Cost Comparison in Real Projects

Case Study: Highway Slope Stabilization with Burlap Squares

The Arkansas Department of Transportation covered 9 acres of 2:1 roadside slope with 36-in burlap squares in 2022. Sediment sensors recorded 47 % less runoff than adjacent slopes protected by plastic sheets, while the natural jute blended with native grass seeding—crucial for community acceptance (ARDOT, 2023).

Lifecycle Cost Analysis vs. Plastic Mulch

Despite a higher upfront price, contractors saved ≈27 % over five years once disposal and re-grading costs were eliminated.

Installation & Maintenance Best Practices

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Prep the soil: Lightly rake and level.

2. Center the square: Coarse side down around the planting hole.

3. Anchor corners: Biodegradable stakes every 12 in on slopes steeper than 3:1.

4. Water thoroughly: Damp burlap conforms to micro-contours and resists wind lift.

“If your crew can roll out a welcome mat, they can lay burlap squares—no special tools needed.”
—Laura Chen, CPH & Board Member, International Erosion Control Association, 2025 Conference

Decomposition Timeline & Minimal Upkeep Tips

• Expect visible fiber breakdown after 6–9 months in humid regions.

• Top-dress with compost at month 10 to accelerate humus formation.

• Inspect stakes quarterly; replace only after major runoff events.

Safety & Handling

• Mold prevention: Store burlap in a dry, ventilated area; damp rolls can harbor surface mold that irritates skin and lungs.

• Glove use: Natural fibers can be abrasive—lightweight work gloves protect hands during installation.

• Stake disposal: Choose cornstarch-based or wooden stakes that decompose alongside the fabric, eliminating sharp metal remnants in soil.

Selecting a Reliable Supplier

Critical Quality Certifications & Testing Standards

• ISO 9001: Consistent manufacturing processes

• ASTM D6475: Verified tensile strength for erosion-control textiles

• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: Fiber safety for soil and groundwater contact

Wellco Industries: Vertically Integrated Support for Large-Scale Orders

Wellco Industries, a leading global supplier of FRP, agricultural, and household products, weaves its own burlap fabric, tracing every square from raw jute to packaged pallet. Purchasing managers gain:

• Custom sizing & private labeling up to 48 in²

• Logistics hubs on three continents for time-critical deliveries

• Agronomy and engineering teams that provide specification sheets, pull tests, and onsite training

Conclusion

Adopting burlap squares for landscaping transforms a routine materials choice into a sustainability win. You’ll cut plastic waste, boost soil vitality, and often lower total project cost. Ready to pilot burlap on your next job? Contact Wellco Industries for samples, bulk pricing, or private-label options—and watch your project thrive the natural way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How long do burlap squares last before breaking down?
Most projects see structural integrity for 8–12 months, with complete decomposition within 14 months, depending on climate.

Q2. Can burlap squares handle steep slopes?
Yes. When anchored every 12 in with biodegradable stakes, 12 oz / yd² burlap squares remain stable on slopes up to 2:1.

Q3. Are there customization options for branding or size?
Wellco Industries offers private-label printing and custom cuts up to 48 in² to fit unique site requirements.

Q4. Will burlap attract pests or rodents?
Field studies show no significant rodent attraction; natural tannins and rapid breakdown minimize habitat formation.

Q5. What certifications should I look for in a supplier?
Seek ISO 9001 process control, ASTM D6475 tensile testing, and OEKO-TEX® chemical safety to ensure quality and compliance.