Absolutely get rid of that plastic. Plastic as a "weed" barrier is the worst material there is to use in any landscape. Plastic keeps moisture and air from getting into the soil and can cause that soil to become anaerobic and smell putrid. While plastic has been touted as being somewhat better at keeping "weeds" from growing a thick (4 to 6 inches) mulch will do a better job but still allow thye moisture to drain off and air to infiltrate the soil.

kimmq is kimmsr