Rock It Out: Creative Ways to Use Landscaping Rocks on Your Property

Written by Builders Sand & Gravel Inc. on . Posted in Blog

uses for landscaping rocksAlthough winter is on its way, that doesn’t mean you can’t look ahead to your spring landscaping plans. In fact, there are certain landscaping elements that can make your property look aesthetically pleasing all year round. Rocks and stone features, for example, can add depth, texture, and color to your outdoor space — no matter the season. If you need a bit of inspiration to get started, here are some excellent uses for landscaping rocks in your front lawn or backyard.

Ground Cover

One of the most popular uses for river rocks — which are more akin to gravel than to big boulders — is to utilize them as ground cover. While many gardeners will opt for grasses, mosses, or even low-lying shrubs for this job, you may want to consider using river rock for landscaping in this way instead. It’s a viable alternative to mulch; though rocks won’t moisturize the soil, they’re often more affordable and require far less maintenance. As a bonus, a one-inch layer of small rocks can provide good weed control, meaning you could reduce the amount of time you’ll have to spend pulling out dandelions and other unwanted species. Using river rocks in this way may appeal to homeowners who live in hotter and dryer climates, who want to minimize their yard work, or who want to focus on hardscaping features instead. Business owners may also benefit from using river rocks, pea gravel, or other options in their landscaping plans.

Visual Accents

Rocks can make for a neutral foundation, but they can also act as the star of the show. Accent boulders could be a welcome focal point in your garden or front yard, particularly when it’s of an unusual shape or color. They may even be slightly sculptural in feel, which can make your green space feel more akin to an outdoor gallery. Ideally, you’ll want to plant some flowers or greenery around the base of these larger rocks. As an alternative, you could place gravel or other small rocks underneath to make the boulder appear more natural.

Flowerbed Borders

Another one of the many uses for landscaping rocks is to define your garden in an attractive way. For example, rocks make for a beautiful and natural edging option for your flowerbeds. You can use flagstones, small boulders, or even river rocks to create a border around these areas of your garden. This results in a rather enchanting garden space that invites family and friends to stop and smell the roses (or other favorite blooms). But of course, edging your flower beds also serves a practical purpose: you’ll define the space and can more easily keep weeds out.

Charming Pathways

Keep in mind that the most beautiful landscaping rocks Seattle has to offer can also be used to form natural-looking pathways around your property. Pebbles, gravel, and even larger stones are often used for this purpose as an alternative to concrete or brick. These materials can instantly add a bit of vintage charm to your yard and boost your curb appeal. Plus, these walkways will welcome your guests and keep them safe, particularly if your other terrain is a bit uneven.

Of course, there are countless uses for landscaping rocks on your property. By utilizing natural stone, gravel, and river rocks in the ways outlined above, you’ll likely improve your property value and your overall satisfaction with the look of your home.