Exploring Creative Ways to Use Gravel in Your Landscape Design
If you’re looking for a durable, versatile, and cost-effective landscaping material, gravel should be at the top of your list. Available in a range of textures, colors, and sizes, it provides homeowners with endless design options across several different spaces.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your garden, create a unique pathway, or add some decorative touches, gravel gets the job done. This post covers creative ways to use gravel in your landscape.
Elegant Pathways
Gravel pathways are not only practical but also add a rustic charm to your garden or yard. They’re quick and easy to install, don’t require much maintenance, and provide a durable surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic.
- To create a gravel pathway:
- Start by outlining the desired path with stakes and string.
- Dig out the soil to a depth of about 4-6 inches, then lay down a weed barrier fabric (you’ll thank us later).
- Fill the trench with a layer of crushed gravel and top it off with decorative gravel.
This process creates a stable, weed-free path that looks great, drains well, and feels solid underfoot!
Gravel Mulch for Garden Beds
Many homeowners want to stand out from the rest of the neighborhood by implementing eye-catching decorative features in their landscape. A gravel garden is an easy way to accomplish this goal.
Combine your choice of gravel with drought-tolerant plants such as succulents, cacti, and ornamental grasses. This type of garden is visually appealing and easy to maintain. You can also use gravel to create a zen garden or rock garden, incorporating larger stones, boulders, and gravel to design a serene, meditative space.
Decorative Lawn and Garden Features
Many homeowners want to stand out from the rest of the neighborhood by implementing eye-catching decorative features in their landscape. A gravel garden is an easy way to accomplish this goal.
Combine your choice of gravel with drought-tolerant plants such as succulents, cacti, and ornamental grasses. This type of garden is visually appealing and easy to maintain. You can also use gravel to create a zen garden or rock garden, incorporating larger stones, boulders, and gravel to design a serene, meditative space.
Cost-Effective DIY Driveways
Installing or redoing a driveway – even a small one – can be an expensive project. Gravel is a viable alternative to traditional asphalt or concrete driveways, and you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics or performance.
Gravel driveways offer excellent drainage, reducing the risk of puddles and ice in the winter. To install one, lay down a layer of large, crushed stone as a base, followed by a layer of smaller, decorative gravel on top. Compact the gravel layers to create a sturdy, long-lasting surface that enhances your home’s curb appeal.
Gravel Patios
While pavers are still the default choice for patios, they’re not the option. Gravel patios are easy to install, can be customized to fit any size or shape, and allow you to be creative with your design. Add outdoor furniture, potted plants, and other decor to complete your cozy, stylish patio.
Fire Pit Areas
Who doesn’t love making memories around the fire pit? Upgrading your current setup by incorporating gravel is easy and can completely transform the space. Gravel provides a stable, fire-resistant surface that is perfect for outdoor gatherings. And the best part is you can knock out this project in a weekend.
Choose a level spot in your yard and clear the area of any grass or debris. Lay down a weed barrier fabric, then fill the area with a layer of gravel. Place your fire pit in the center and arrange seating around it. This process creates a safe, inviting space for enjoying evenings with family and friends.
Ready to get started? Bushelman Supply Has You Covered
Designs and material preferences change over the years, but a few things never go out of style. Our commitment to providing customers with the highest quality materials and the highest customer standards has allowed us to stay in business for generations.
If you’re considering an exterior project at your home or business, contact a member of our team, and we’ll ensure you get the materials you need at a fair price. We look