What is a primary purpose of landscape fabric?

The primary purpose of landscape fabric is to suppress weeds while allowing water and nutrients to penetrate. This material is typically used in landscaping and gardening to create a barrier that inhibits the growth of unwanted plants by blocking sunlight. At the same time, the fabric is designed to be permeable, meaning that it allows moisture and nutrients from the soil to reach the plants above. This balance is crucial because it helps maintain healthy soil conditions while actively preventing weed growth, making it a valuable tool in landscape maintenance and garden management.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary functions of landscape fabric. While enhancing water retention is beneficial for plants, it is not the fabric's main purpose. Similarly, while decorative mulch serves to enhance aesthetics and retain moisture, it is not the role of landscape fabric. Lastly, while some plants may require support structures, landscape fabric is not designed for this purpose. Its primary role is firmly rooted in weed suppression while facilitating the essential flow of water and nutrients.