Certain kinds of products can offer extremely versatile uses within a landscape, and river rocks and black lava rock products are a great example. River rock landscaping can take on numerous forms and provide a range of different benefits, and there are a number of common trends that tend to ebb and flow within this area.
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we’re happy to offer a huge selection of river rocks, black lava rock and other rock and gravel products for any landscaping need around Salt Lake City. Here are some of the latest trends in black lava rock and river rock landscaping, plus some information in each area to help you determine if a given approach might be right for your landscape.
River Rocks and Garden Beds
Some of the most common and useful applications for river rocks in landscaping involve garden and plant beds. River rocks can be used as a protective barrier around plants and flowers to prevent weeds from growing, retain moisture in the soil, and add visual interest to the space. They also serve as drainage and erosion control, making them a practical choice for gardens that are prone to flooding or heavy rains.
When choosing river rocks for your garden beds, it’s important to consider the size and color of the rock. Smaller river rocks work best for pathways or borders around plants, while larger river rocks can make a statement on their own or be used as accent pieces in a bed. Colors range from earthy tones like brown and beige to more vibrant options like red and blue. Consider your existing garden design and choose river rocks that will complement it.
Water Features
Another common way river rocks and black lava rocks are used in gardens is to create water features. These can range from small fountains or bubblers to larger ponds with waterfalls. River rocks are perfect for creating a natural look and feel, as they mimic the appearance of a stream or riverbed.
For instance, perhaps you have a small fountain in your garden that is currently filled with pebbles or sand. By swapping these out for river rocks, you can instantly transform the look and feel of the feature. The water will still flow and bubble, but now it will be surrounded by smooth, rounded stones instead of sharp edges.
Another option is to use river rocks to create a pond or waterfall feature. These larger water features can add a tranquil element to your garden, providing a soothing sound and attracting wildlife. River rocks can be used as both the base and border of the pond or waterfall, creating a natural-looking landscape.
Walkways and Paths
River rocks are also commonly used to create walkways and paths in gardens. The smooth, round stones provide a comfortable surface to walk on and can add a unique aesthetic element to your outdoor space. They are particularly well-suited for creating meandering paths through flower beds or around larger features like trees or shrubs.
One recent trend here is the use of river rocks as stepping stones. These large, flat stones can be placed strategically throughout the garden to create a whimsical and functional path. This is especially useful in areas with uneven or rough terrain where traditional paved paths may not be feasible.
Fire Pits
River rocks are also a popular material for building fire pits in outdoor spaces. Their natural color and texture add to the rustic, earthy appeal of a fire pit, making it an inviting gathering spot for friends and family.
When using river rocks for a fire pit, it’s important to choose larger, more rounded stones that won’t crack or explode when exposed to high heat. It’s also recommended to use some type of protective barrier between the rocks and the fire, such as a metal ring or a layer of sand.
Drainage and Sustainability
Within many of the areas we’ve gone over to this point, river rocks and black lava rocks also offer some great sustainability benefits. Not only are they naturally sourced and eco-friendly, but they also provide excellent drainage when used in landscaping projects. This is especially helpful for areas that experience heavy rainfall or flooding.
Additionally, using river rocks and black lava rocks can help prevent soil erosion by creating a barrier against wind and water. This promotes healthier plant growth and reduces the need for constant maintenance.
BioGrass’s Wide Selection
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we stock a wide range of premium rock and gravel products for any need around Salt Lake City, including river rock and black lava rock. Our experienced staff can help you select the right type and quantity of rock for your specific project.
As you can see, there are numerous modern ways to utilize black lava rock and river rock landscaping to your benefit. For more here, or to learn about any of our landscaping products around SLC, contact us today at BioGrass Sod Farms!