How To Do Rock Landscaping

Rock landscaping is an attractive design feature which adds an ornamental and structural element to a garden's landscape. Whether achieved by a simple stone pathway or an elaborate design feature, rock landscaping is an ideal way to customize a garden or other outdoor area.

What Is Rock Landscaping?

Rock landscaping, also referred to as rock gardening or rockwork, is an art form of constructing a garden space with arrangements of various types of stones, boulders, pebbles, gravel, and other materials. It is a creative way of enhancing a garden design by incorporating different sizes, textures, and colors of ornamental cobblestones and rocks into an outdoor space. Professional rock landscapers are available to make larger or more elaborate designs than amateur gardeners might be able to manage.

Steps for Doing Rock Landscaping

It is important to plan out the stone design prior to undertaking a rock landscaping project. Lay out the design on paper and involve the neighbors in the project if it affects them. Using a tape measure, stake the area and mark it out using strings. It is best to create a base layer of pea gravel or another loose-fill material such as decomposed granite.

Step 1: Prepare the Area

The garden should be cleared of weeds or unwanted plants. Removing debris from the space helps ensure the top layer of stones will be even and aesthetically pleasing. The soil should be leveled and some of it mounded to allow for rainfall to move away from the area. If there is water runoff, a French drain can be used to get water away from the landscape.

Step 2: Laying Stone Walls

Stack stones in lines to form a wall if one is desired. This is a great way to retain soil in the garden and create different levels of elevation in the garden or make a building project less daunting. Stones can be specifically chosen for their sizes and colors to provide an aesthetically pleasing pattern in the walls.

Step 3: Install Your Pathway

The pathway can be seen as an extension of the stone walls. Secure the pea gravel or decomposed granite edging and then cover it with large patio stones or flagstones. Natural stone brick can also be used for a pathway, or broken pieces of tiles can be used to create a unique and durable pathway and walkway.

Step 4: Place Water Features

The addition of a birdbath, fountain, or pond is a great way to add a focal point to the garden. They not only make the garden look attractive but also add audio and visual interest to the landscape. The fountains or ponds can be combined with rock walls, and the stones can be arranged all around the water feature and be planted with aquatic plants.

Finding Rocks for Rock Landscaping

Stones and rocks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. One can purchase material from a lumberyard or online, or find free material from areas around your property such as natural rock outcroppings.

Purchased Rocks

When purchasing rocks, select larger varieties of stone such as flag stones for pathways, and walls and smaller stones or pebbles for stepping stones. Also consider creek rocks, which are round, smooth pebbles in various sizes.

Found Rocks

Many areas have rocky outcroppings that can be utilized when doing rock landscaping. Take a walk around with a wagon and collect some smaller rocks that have interesting shapes. Flat stones have natural texture and are great for stepping stones, fire pits, or for creating patterns in the garden.

Benefits of Rock Landscaping

Rock landscaping is a relatively easy and cost-effective way to use natural materials to create beautiful designs in a garden. It is widely available and comes in a range of sizes, shapes, and colors to fit the space. Even novice gardeners can create attractive designs without a lot of technical knowledge.

Final Word

Rock landscaping is an ideal way to customize an outdoor space with natural materials. By following the steps outlined above, a garden can be transformed into an attractive and inviting space. Whether purchasing rocks or utilizing found stone, the process of completing rock landscaping is a rewarding and creative endeavor.

References:

Gardening Know How. (2020). What Is Rock Gardening? https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/rock-garden/rock-garden.htm

Buyer's Choice. (2020). Steps to Create a Rock Garden. https://www.buyerschoiceconstruction.com/steps-to-create-a-rock-garden/

Davey Tree. (2020). Rock Gardening: Tips and Tricks. https://www.davey.com/blog/rock-gardening-tips-and-tricks/