Question: After I prepare the soil for my vegetable garden, I plan to put down landscape fabric then sow the seeds directly through holes I cut into the fabric. My question is does this sound feasible and is there a specific procedure for sowing seeds through landscape fabric?

Answer: Landscape fabric is generally suggested for areas with relatively permanent plantings such as trees and shrubs, and sometimes perennials, depending on the situation. Vegetable gardens are renewed each spring, which often means tilling and adding amendments, both of which would be difficult with landscape fabric in place. You can use landscape fabric under permanent walkways, but within the vegetable beds, you should consider using organic mulch such as straw, grass clippings, or shredded bark.