Landscaping mat

Abstract

A landscaping mat is provided for surrounding a tree trunk and upstanding posts so as to eliminate the need to mow and trim around the tree or post. The mat includes a flexible inner portion, an intermediate portion surrounding the inner portion, and an outer portion surrounding the intermediate portion. The intermediate portion is thicker than the inner portion, and the outer portion is tapered to an outer perimeter edge. A slit extends from the perimeter edge to a central opening in the inner portion so as to allow the mat to be placed in position around a tree trunk or post. Alternatively, the slit may extend through the diameter of the mat so as to define two mirror image mat sections. Concentric scored lines are provided around the central opening and can be cut so as to increase the diameter of the opening so as to accommodate different sized tree trunks or posts. A rib may be provided on the intermediate portion for retaining ornamental materials, such as rocks, bark, wood chips or mulch. Alternatively, the upper surface of the mat may be textured and colored so as to resemble such ornamental materials.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.