When planning a new yard project, you might be thinking about adding landscape gravel. There are various types to choose from, such as river rocks, pea gravel, and crushed gravel. These small stones offer several benefits and are generally considered durable. Compared to wood-based mulch or pine straw, gravel typically requires less maintenance and tends to have fewer pest issues. Additionally, gravel does not need to be refreshed or replaced as frequently as other materials. However, landscape gravel is best suited for specific areas of your yard and should be kept away from your garden. Safety and maintenance are significant concerns when using gravel in large portions of your yard.
Safety is a primary concern with landscape gravel, particularly if placed near a lawn without proper barriers. If you still have areas of grass that require maintenance, there’s a risk of damaging your lawn mower by accidentally running over landscape rocks. Aside from potential costly damage to equipment, these rocks can become projectiles when hit by lawn mowers, leading to injuries or property damage. Poorly compacted rocks may roll into grass or pathways, becoming tripping hazards. Edging garden beds with landscape gravel can help reduce mowing and tripping risks, but these methods are not entirely foolproof.
Unexpected Downsides of Landscape Gravel
While gravel may not demand as much regular maintenance as other landscaping materials, there are still issues to consider when placing it near your lawn. If you don’t apply a sufficiently thick layer during installation, you may still face weed problems. Moreover, debris that lands on the rocks can be more challenging to clean, especially if you have many trees nearby that drop leaves. Although gravel doesn’t need to be refreshed as often as mulch, you may still need to add new rocks every couple of years to maintain the area’s appearance.
When incorporating landscape gravel into a garden, it’s crucial to choose the right type of mulch for overall soil health. Rocks can be visually appealing in pathways and edged beds around your yard. However, for gardens, consider using natural mulch to help regulate soil health and temperature while controlling weeds. Examples of natural mulch include wood chips, pine bark, and even grass clippings. Placing gravel beneath soil is not only ineffective but can also increase the risk of plant diseases. As a guideline, use landscape gravel in limited sections of your yard, ensuring no rocks are near your lawn or garden beds.
