The spring period we’re just entering now around Utah is one where many landscape owners look for ways to refresh and revitalize their space headed into a new growing season. One great approach to consider here: The use of landscape gravel for strategic refreshment of the yard and landscape.
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we’re proud to offer the best selection of landscape gravel rock for various needs around Salt Lake City. Rock and gravel products are perfect for landscaping projects as they can provide both aesthetic appeal and practical function. Let’s go over some of the top ways they can be used to refresh and revitalize your landscape this spring.
Pathways and Walkways
One of the most common and popular uses for landscape gravel rock is creating pathways and walkways throughout your yard. Not only does this add a visually appealing element to your outdoor space, but it also serves a functional purpose by providing a stable and low-maintenance surface for walking on. Plus, with the variety of colors and sizes available, you can choose a gravel that complements the overall aesthetic of your landscape.
For instance, if you have a modern and minimalistic garden, you may opt for small, smooth pebbles in shades of grey or white. On the other hand, if your yard has a more rustic and natural feel, larger river rocks in earth tones would be a great choice.
When creating pathways with landscape gravel, it is important to properly prepare the ground beforehand. This typically involves removing any existing grass or vegetation and leveling the area. You can then lay down a layer of landscaping fabric to prevent weeds from growing through the gravel. Once this is done, you can simply pour out your chosen gravel and use a rake or shovel to spread it evenly along the designated path.
Sprucing Up Flower Beds
Another great use for landscape gravel is to spruce up flower beds. This can be done by creating a border or edging around the bed using smaller, decorative gravel. Not only does this add visual interest, but it also helps to keep the soil in place and prevents weeds from growing into the bed. Additionally, you can mix larger stones or boulders into the bed itself to add texture and dimension.
Gravel can also be used as a base layer for flower beds, providing drainage and helping to prevent soil erosion. Simply spread a layer of gravel at the bottom of your designated flower bed before adding in your preferred soil mixture.
Gravel Gardens
Going even a step further, gravel can be used as the main feature in a garden. Gravel gardens have gained popularity in recent years for their low maintenance and drought-resistant qualities.
To create a gravel garden, start by removing any existing plants or grass from the designated area. Then, lay down a weed barrier to prevent weeds from growing up through the gravel. Next, add a layer of crushed gravel or pea gravel on top of the weed barrier. This will serve as your base layer.
From there, you can get creative with different sizes and colors of gravel to create patterns or designs within your garden. You can also incorporate larger stones, boulders, and other natural elements to add visual interest. Consider adding in some drought-tolerant plants or succulents to add some greenery and texture to your gravel garden.
Accent Features
In other cases, you might look to use landscape gravel as an accent to other features in your garden, such as pathways or edging. Gravel can be a great material to use for defining walkways and creating borders around flower beds or other areas of your garden.
To create a clean and cohesive look, consider using the same type of gravel throughout your entire landscape. You can also mix and match different colors and sizes to add some visual interest.
Drainage Solutions
A highly practical use of landscape gravel for many homeowners is to create drainage solutions. Gravel can be used as a base material for French drains, which are trenches filled with gravel and perforated pipes designed to redirect water away from your home’s foundation.
Additionally, you can use gravel to fill in low-lying areas or place it strategically around your yard to help prevent standing water. This not only helps keep your yard looking neat and tidy, but also protects your landscaping and hardscaping features from potential damage caused by excess water.
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we’re proud to stock a wide range of rock and gravel products for clients around SLC. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create a beautiful, functional outdoor space that will stand the test of time.