Multiple problems are usually at work when the landscaping starts looking tired-overgrown perennials, patchy lawn, and dead tree branches to name a few. But beyond plants, neglected hardscape can really put a damper on an otherwise lovely yard. Read on to learn how to clean landscape rock and freshen up your yard.
Clean-Up Gravel
Wondering how to clean landscape rock spread across flower beds? Unfortunately, gravel clean-up is a tedious task that involves sifting out the dirt, washing the rocks, and lots of time.
If it’s just surface dust, a good hose down may work to restore the gravel’s appearance. But if there is a significant amount of silt from runoff or leaf matter mixed into the gravel, a good cleaning is in order. Otherwise, the weeds will grow and the rockscape will appear messy.
Preventing major gravel cleaning sessions is well worth the effort. Pull up weeds as soon as they become visible and rake up or blow away storm debris or fallen leaves promptly. If the gravel becomes thin and dirt shows, consider adding gravel to thicken the layer. For a new installation, landscape fabric is a great investment.
The same steps apply to river rock landscaping and other small to medium sized decorative rocks. For more information on rock landscaping design tips, head over here.
Spruce-Up Pavers
Sweep pavers with a stiff broom regularly. For a deeper clean, spray them with a garden hose using a spray nozzle. Attack stains with a stiff brush, dish soap, and a bit of elbow grease. Rinse well with the hose when finished.
Once a year, reapply polymeric sand to the pavers. This helps avoid weeds and keep your pavers looking tidy.
Tackle Large Landscape Rocks and Boulders
It isn’t always necessary to thoroughly clean large landscape rock features and boulders. The natural patina is part of the appeal and moss or lichens growing on boulders don’t cause damage like they do on wood.
However, bird droppings or other unsightly debris might show up and the rocks will benefit from a good scrub. They are easy to wash with a brush or rag and warm water. Try a little dish soap and a scrub brush for particularly stubborn spots.
Clean Block Retaining Walls
Most materials are better off with consistent care, and block or brick retaining walls are no exception. They can get quite dingy from blowing dirt and sometimes are covered in unwanted algae if the conditions are right.
An easy way to clean them up is to use a regular hose and a spray nozzle with a reservoir for adding cleanser. Diluted dish soap or a commercially available outdoor cleaner can be used. Always consult the label and read it thoroughly.
Spray down the wall thoroughly with water and the chosen cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, spray down the wall with high-pressure water until the water runs clean. Spot clean stains with a stiff brush and diluted dish soap to keep the wall looking great.
Take Care of Manufactured Stone Products
Cleaning landscape rock work that was engineered and manufactured isn’t quite so straightforward. Manufactured stone products don’t always respond well to harsh commercial cleaners. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for the right cleaning product.
If the recommendation can’t be found, try cleaning with a diluted dish soap solution and a brush. Rinse gently with a garden hose. High-pressure hoses and pressure washers can damage delicate materials. When in doubt, work with an expert to prevent a cleaning job from turning into an unplanned renovation.
Polish-Up Limestone
Sweep limestone regularly to avoid debris buildup. Spray down with the garden hose and gently scrub the limestone with a push-broom or scrub brush.
Kitty litter or detergent marked for cutting grease are great for oil stains. Another option is to mix flour with hydrogen peroxide until it forms a paste. Never use acid-based cleaners on limestone as this can damage the stone. Flagstone walkways and patios can be cleaned in a similar fashion.
Clean Carefully Around Plants
After all the hard work to install landscaping, many homeowners wonder how to clean landscape rocks without killing plants. In general, avoid hitting them with a harsh blast from the power sprayer. Diluted dish soap or gentle cleaners usually won’t hurt plants but try to avoid getting the solution on them.
If the job necessitates a harsher chemical, cover the plants with a tarp or plastic drop cloths to protect them from the worst of the runoff. It’s never a bad idea to also rinse off plants after the cleaning job is done to remove any residue.
Landscape rock cleaning can become a chore around plants. If the upkeep becomes tedious, mulch can be substituted as a low maintenance ground cover.
A Few Helpful Tips
- Always completely read the label for safety and application instructions
- Consider child and pet safety when choosing chemicals and cleaners
- Wear appropriate safety equipment and eye protection
- Use power washing with care as it can damage materials
- Avoid applying excessive pressure to surfaces
- Clean a small, hidden section first to ensure the method is non-damaging
- Use the gentlest method first
- Be careful not to create scratches with brushes
Maintenance Not Your Thing?
Here at Atlanta Turf & Tree, we take pride in a job well done and work every day to make our community more beautiful. We have 35 years of combined experience in the industry and view landscaping as living art. Reach out to our landscaping services experts to discuss your vision and start building your masterpiece today!
