When you think of landscaping, flowers, mulch, and grass probably come to mind. But landscaping rock is the creative and practical MVP of a low-maintenance landscape, and it can be used to great effect in nearly every yard.
Pea gravel, river stones, and other types of landscaping rocks are wonderful for soil erosion control, weed control, ground cover, and patios. Plus, when used correctly, rockscapes can be downright stunning. Check out the best ideas to use landscaping rocks here!
Use for Easy Ground Cover
Rocks as ground cover are easy, attractive, and cheap to maintain. A layer of landscape fabric underneath the rocks helps to eliminate weed problems before they start. Choose a porous fabric rather than plastic to help percolate water through the soil and give thirsty tree and shrub roots a drink.
And don’t forget to remove grass first. To achieve a long lasting, level installation, lawn and any biodegradable materials like mulch should be removed. Then, tamp down the dirt so that the gravel will not sink and settle.
After applying the weed barrier, it’s time to choose the best rock for your landscaping project. Landscaping rocks for ground cover range from tiny pieces of decorative gravel to cobblestone sized river and lava rocks. Choose one that compliments the rest of your landscape.
For pet owners, pea gravel tends to be softer underfoot for dogs and the light color helps it stay cooler than darker stones in the heat of the day.
Once the rock material is decided, plan to lay it to a minimum of 2-3 inches in depth. A thicker layer (backed with landscape fabric) makes keeping the area weed-free a breeze. Further, a thick layer will resist unsightly thin areas from foot traffic.
Install a Simple Stepping Stone Path
Rocks can also be used to create simple yet elegant patios and paths. Paths are great for leading both the eye and the feet through the landscaping and who doesn’t love spending a relaxing evening on an outdoor patio?
Depending on the desired look, the best rock for landscaping might be flagstone, sandstone, or limestone. Slate can also be used for a rustic vibe, and it comes in a variety of colors.
Create a Beautiful Retaining Wall
Retaining walls are great for dividing up a hillside, and different levels can turn a backyard into a gorgeous mosaic of different vegetable gardens, flower beds, and lawn space. They can be used to draw the eye through the landscape, create a grand sense of space, and creatively work with a sloped yard.
Homeowners can also build a simple wall with natural boulders, landscape stones, or stacked rock. Limestone, flagstone, fieldstone, granite, and sandstone are beautiful options.
Make a Visual Impact
Green is lovely. But when the entire landscaped area is green, not much will stand out. Homeowners can use landscaping rocks to help break up the monotony in landscape design.
For example, homeowners might use large rocks and boulders to create a focal point in the yard. Smaller rocks could be used to edge a flower bed for contrast. Or, a waterfall made of stacked landscaping stones can be added. Who doesn’t love the sound of trickling water on a hot summer day?
Ensure Proper Drainage
In many areas, proper drainage is becoming more and more of a problem. More driveways, roads, and parking lots mean less soil and fewer trees to soak up excess water.
Homeowners can use gravel to build a drainage ditch or French drain to direct water away from the home’s foundation. Slabs of concrete force water to run off and puddle, but gravel used as ground cover allows water to steadily drain through.
Clean-Up the Look With a Decorative Border
Decorative borders made of gravel or river rock around flower beds, patios, and lawns are another fantastic landscaping idea. They help to define the edges of different landscape features and polish up the overall impression of the yard.
Decorative rock borders also introduce different colors and textures to the design. There are a ton of options, and borders are a great project for a homeowner looking to add their personal style to their outdoor space.
Build a Dry Creek Bed
In the same vein, a dry creek bed is another fun way to add texture and color to a landscaping scene. Plus, this attractive feature can double as a collection and drainage site for excess rainfall.
It’s pretty easy to build too. Homeowners can even do it themselves by laying a meandering path through the yard. Just make sure to slope it away from structures and towards a drainage point.
Layer the Landscape With Contrast
It can be hard in some climates to get a variety of colors in the landscaping. The winter season can be a real downer for the yard when all the foliage drops and the flowers go dormant. Landscaping rocks give homeowners more options for adding color and variety that will shine all year long.
Red lava rock can be layered beside marble chips or multicolor decorative stone for a ribbon effect across the landscape. Natural stone materials come in a wide variety of colors, and make beautiful walkways or low stone walls for bordering planters.
Rocks are also helpful for creating low-maintenance zones and are very popular for using less water in xeriscape design.
Feature a Waterfall, Pond, or Running Creek
In addition to having a place in xeriscaped yards, rocks can also be used in water features. They can create waterfalls or be used to hide the linings for running creeks. Larger rocks can serve as an attractive border around a pond while providing natural seating.
Complement the Existing Landscape
The best rock for landscaping in a particular yard will depend on the feel the homeowner wants to create. For example, large boulders and flagstone inspire a sense of being in a forest. And the contrast between squared angles and rounded river rocks or Mexican beach pebbles creates a modern look.
There are many types of landscape, and how successfully the look is achieved comes down to the nitty gritty details. Choosing the right rock is a huge win for the success of the landscape design.
Feeling Rocky About Your Landscape Rocks?
Anyone who’s hit the road to the local rock supply knows there are a lot of options out there. And then a few more! If choosing landscaping rock that is best for your project seems daunting, we’ve got you covered.
Our Atlanta-area lawn care and landscaping experts have been at this since 2007 and bring 35 years of combined experience to the table. Contact our landscaping services experts today to get going on your big idea!
