When you think about landscape, chances are your first thoughts are what plants you should add to your yard. However, one thing you should also consider is adding some rocks to your landscaping features.
Rocks provide different focal points to your landscaping and add vertical interest to areas that are otherwise flat. In addition, rocks can be functional barriers and help with drainage.
Choose a single type of rock or combine several different types of landscaping rocks based on your particular needs. Here are some of the different types of landscaping rocks available.
Large Stones
Large stones come in a variety of sizes. The smallest stones are about the size of a soccer ball, and the largest can be as big as a small car. These stones can be decorative or functional.
For example, placing a large rock at the edge of your driveway can prevent vehicles from entering your garden. Used alone, a large stone can create a focal point in your landscaping. Surrounding it with flowers can make the display even more dramatic.
For waterfalls or pond features, a large stone enhances the natural look.
River Rock
River rocks are smooth, rounded stones typically between a quarter inch to six inches in size. Small and medium-sized river rocks can be used for French drains. These landscaping rocks also work around plants in shady areas.
If your plants are not heat-tolerant, you should not use river rock around them. These stones will retain the warmth from the sun and can overheat plants that are sensitive to heat. Large or medium-sized river rocks placed along a path can mimic a riverbed and look very attractive at the base of a large stone.
Gravel
Gravel landscaping can include either pea or crushed gravel. Pea gravel is made of small, smooth pebbles and offers a strong visual appeal. It is often used in Japanese gardens to simulate ponds. It also works well for traffic pathways when edged properly to keep the gravel in place.
Crushed gravel, on the other hand, is best suited for unpaved driveways or as a layer in a French drain. Avoid using crushed gravel in walkways where people will be barefoot, as it has rough edges.
Lava Rock
The bright color of lava rock makes it attractive to many gardeners. Lava rock is a good choice for cactus or yucca plants in an arid garden. So, avoid using it in areas where people may walk barefoot.
Flagstones
Flagstones are ideal for creating paths or patios. They are wide, flat stones that serve as perfect stepping-stones.
When installing a path or patio with flagstones, place them over sand to ensure stability and proper drainage. Low-growing ground cover like creeping thyme can be planted between stones to enhance a natural look.
The type of rock available to you will depend on your location. Decorative stone is typically sourced from local quarries, and stone types can vary greatly by region. Shipping stone from other areas can be quite expensive and is often not worth the price tag.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do large stones and boulders impact landscaping design?
Large stones can serve as dramatic focal points, functional barriers, or natural-looking enhancements in gardens and water features.
What are river rocks best used for in landscaping?
River rocks are ideal for French drains, plant bed coverings, and pathways, though their heat-retaining properties mean they are not always suitable around delicate plants.
What is the difference between pea gravel and crushed gravel in landscape design?
Pea gravel is smooth, visually appealing, and good for walkways and decorative purposes, while crushed gravel is rougher, making it better for driveways or drainage layers.
Why is flagstone recommended for paths and patios?
Flagstones are flat and stable, making them excellent for walkways or patio surfaces, and they can be spaced with ground cover plants to create a naturalistic look with good drainage.
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