A fair concern about any mulch or gravel glue is whether it seals the surface and starves your plants. Here is how EcoLock HD actually behaves once it is down and cured.
The bond is water-permeable
EcoLock HD creates a bonded surface layer while remaining fully water-permeable. Rain, sprinkler water and hose irrigation all pass through the treated mulch or gravel and reach the soil below, so plants, trees and shrubs keep getting the water they need.
It is breathable, not a seal
The cured film is flexible and breathable rather than a solid crust. Air and water move through it, which is why it can hold material in place without suffocating soil or roots. It does not leach chemicals into the soil.
Drying and cure
EcoLock HD sets in 2–4 hours and reaches full cure in 24 hours. Avoid foot traffic and water during drying. Once fully cured it is non-toxic and safe for pets, children and plants — keep pets off the area only during application and curing.
What it does not do
EcoLock HD is an adhesive, not a weed barrier. It will not kill or block weeds on its own. For weed suppression, lay landscape fabric underneath the mulch before applying. Avoid spraying directly onto plant leaves and flowers during application.