Are you considering adding rocks to your landscaping design? If so, there are a few things you need to do before beginning the project. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps necessary to prepare for rock landscaping.

We will discuss everything from choosing the right rocks to preparing the ground for installation. So, whether you’re a beginner or a pro, read on for tips and advice to help make your landscaping rocks project a success!

What is Rock landscaping?

Rock landscaping is a type of gardening that involves adding decorative stones and rocks to a piece of land, usually done by a masonry contractor. This can be done for both aesthetic and functional purposes. For example, rocks can create borders around gardens or pathways through yards.

In addition, rocks can also be used to add drainage to an area or to provide extra support for plants. Whether you are looking to add a splash of color or simply want to create a more naturalistic garden, rock landscaping is a great option.

There are many rocks to choose from, so you can easily find the perfect option for your home.

How to prepare for rock landscaping?

Now that you know more about rock landscaping, it’s time to start preparing for your project. Here are the steps you need to take:

1. Choose the right rocks

The first step is to choose the right rocks for your landscaping design. You’ll want to consider the selected rocks’ size, shape, and color. In addition, think about where you’ll be placing the rocks and what type of effect you’re trying to achieve.

2. Clean up the Area

To lay landscaping rocks, you must clear the area of any weeds, grass, plants, dead branches, small stones, or pea gravel. This will ensure that only dirt remains. Weeding should be done first to avoid any unwanted plants from growing around new plants.

Once the area is clear, you can begin to add rocks of various sizes and colors to create an eye-catching and unique landscape. Be sure to carefully consider each rock’s placement to achieve the desired look. With a little time and effort, you can transform any outdoor space into a beautiful and relaxing oasis.

3. Work on the Soil Bed

The soil bed is one of the most important aspects of rock landscaping. To create a healthy and stable environment for your plants, you’ll need to ensure that the soil is loose and well-drained. If the soil is too dense, it can prevent water and air from reaching the roots of your plants. To improve the drainage of your soil, add organic matter such as compost or peat moss. This will help to break up the clay and improve the overall quality of the soil.

4. Create a design

Before installing your rocks, it’s a good idea to create a landscape design. This will help you determine the placement of the rocks and ensure that your project looks its best. Once you have a design, you can add the rocks to your landscaping.

5. Install drainage

If you’re adding rocks to an area that doesn’t have good drainage, installing a drainage system is important. This will prevent water from pooling in the area and will help keep your plants healthy. There are a variety of drainage systems to choose from, so be sure to select the one that’s right for your needs.

6. Add plants

Once you’ve added all of the rocks to your landscaping, you can then add plants. This step is optional, but it can help create a more naturalistic look. Be sure to select appropriate plants for the type of soil and drainage you have in your landscaping.

What is best to put under landscape rock?

Landscaping fabric comes in a variety of weights, textures, and colors. The two landscape fabrics best suited for landscape rocks are spun landscape fabric and non-woven landscape fabric. In some cases, you might prefer using a thick woven fabric. The four main types of landscape fabrics are: woven, non-woven, spun, and perforated.

Spun landscape fabric is made from polypropylene that has been cut into very thin strips and spun into strong yarn. Non-woven landscape fabric is made from a web of entangled fibers bonded with heat or chemicals. Woven landscape fabric is made from interlocking fiber strands woven together very tightly.

PRO TIP: Installing a rubber edging strip or another material type to keep the rocks in place instead of moving out due to heavy rains.

Perforated landscape fabric has small holes punched throughout its surface to allow water and air to pass through while still keeping weeds from growing. All four types of landscape fabrics offer different benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Spun and non-woven fabrics are best for preventing weeds, while woven and perforated fabrics offer better drainage. Ultimately, the best river rock landscaping design for you will depend on the specific needs of your project.

How Deep Should Landscaping Rock Be?

The depth of your landscaping river rocks also depends on the purpose of the rocks. If it’s for drainage, an inch of coverage is usually sufficient. If it’s for decoration or to keep weed growth, you’ll probably want 2 to 3 inches of coverage. The best way to determine the right depth for your project is to consult with a surrounding landscape designer or contractor.

They will be able to help you select the right type and size of rock for your needs and ensure that it is installed properly. With their help, you can create a beautiful and functional landscaping design that will stand the test of time.

Rock vs. Mulch — Which Should You Use?

Many gardeners debate the merits of rock vs. mulch. On the one hand, rocks are better for preventing weeds than mulch and are also lower maintenance. Stones can also add to the aesthetics of a property. However, rock cover is not good for gardens that receive a lot of suns because they retain more heat than mulch.

Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference. Some gardeners prefer the natural look of a rock garden, while others prefer the tidy look of a mulched border. There is no right or wrong answer, but both rock-mulch have advantages and disadvantages.

Final Thoughts:

Landscaping with decorative rocks can be a great way to add interest and functionality to your yard. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your project is a success. With a little planning and effort, you can create an outdoor space that you and your family will enjoy for years.

Or if you prefer, we are a hardscaping contractor and we can handle pretty much all kinds of landscaping construction. Get a quote with us today!

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide has been helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us.