Flower Beds with Rocks: Why Consider It and How to Do It

Landscaping with gravel instead of organic mulch is easy. Furthermore, it will save you from having to replace year after year.

Let me give you some reasons to consider using rock mulch. Keep reading to the end for a short guide on how to create a rock flowerbed in your garden. 

Why Should You Consider It?

Rocks Are Durable

Although rocks are more expensive than mulch at first, they are a one-time investment since they are so durable. 

One of the most significant advantages of using rock flower beds is that the rocks do not degrade. Some mulches disintegrate when they are exposed to elements like rain and snow. As a result, they need to be replaced year after year, while rocks remain far longer and may even outlast your garden.

Rock Flower Beds Are Aesthetically Pleasing

Another benefit of rock is that it creates a strong contrast with vividly colored plants, making your garden look more attractive. When it comes to landscaping with rocks, you have various forms, sizes, sorts, and colors to choose from.

Stones can also create a garden bed edge, which keeps soil in place and reduces erosion. However, rocks can sink into the ground over time, depending on how heavy they are.

They Are Low Maintenance

Once rocks are set in place, they require very little upkeep. Wind, pets, and foot traffic don’t bother rocks; thus, it is easy to maintain their appearance.

You will see fewer weeds in your flowerbeds, although rocks won’t entirely eliminate them.

You may need to fertilize your plants more frequently because rocks don’t contribute nutrients to the soil as mulch does.

Leaves and other yard waste can collect in the crevices of rocks. The best approach to removing leaves and debris during spring cleaning is to use a leaf blower.

They Reduce Soil Erosion

Stones help to keep soil in place and prevent erosion. Erosion, or the progressive loss of soil due to natural forces such as rain and wind, can destroy gardens. However, rocks provide a surface for dirt to cling to, keeping it in place in severe rain or flooding.

How to Make a Flowerbed Using Rock

1. Remove all of the old plants from the flower garden.
2. Remove any surplus old mulch using a rake.
3. Lay down landscape fabric. To fasten it, hammer in pins every 12′′ or so.
4. Lay out your plants on the landscaping fabric to identify where your plants should go.
5. Once you’ve decided where you want your plants to go, cut holes into the fabric and plant them.
6. Cover the remaining fabric with your rocks.