Landscaping with crushed stone is a versatile and low-maintenance way to enhance your garden, pathways, or outdoor spaces. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you incorporate crushed stone effectively:
1. Choose the Right Type of Crushed Stone
Crushed stone comes in various sizes, colors, and textures. Common options include:
– Pea Gravel (⅜” size) – Smooth, rounded stones for pathways and decorative beds.
– Crushed Granite (¼”–1″) – Angular and compactable, ideal for walkways and patios.
– Decomposed Granite (DG) (Fine to ¼”) – Compacts well for stable surfaces like patios.
– Lava Rock – Lightweight and porous, great for drainage and mulch replacement.
– River Rock (1″–3″) – Larger stones for borders or dry creek beds.
Tip: Lighter colors reflect heat, while darker stones absorb warmth.
2. Plan Your Design
Decide where to use crushed stone:
– Pathways & Walkways – Use compactable stone like decomposed granite or crushed granite.
– Patios & Seating Areas – Opt for finer crushed stone with stabilizing agents (e.g., polymeric sand).
– Drainage Solutions – Use larger gravel in French drains or dry creek beds.
– Mulch Alternative – Replace organic mulch with small gravel around drought-tolerant plants.
3. Prepare the Area
1. Mark the Space: Outline with stakes and string or spray paint.
2. Remove Grass & Weeds: Dig out vegetation or use landscape fabric to suppress growth.
3. Excavate Soil: Dig 2–4 inches deep for pathways; deeper for patios (4–6 inches).
4. Install Edging (Optional): Use metal, plastic, or stone edging to keep gravel contained.
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4. Add Base Material (For Stability)
For high-traffic areas:
– Lay a 2–3 inch base of compacted crushed rock (½”–¾” size).jpg)
road base.
– Use a plate compactor to firm it up before adding top layers.
5. Install Landscape Fabric (Optional but Recommended)
Weed barrier fabric prevents weeds but allows drainage—essential under decorative gravel.
6. Spread Crushed Stone