Thinking of adding gravel to your landscape but don’t know where to start? Too many choices may be daunting. No worries—we’ve got you. This article covers all you need to know how to choose the right gravel for your garden. We’ll compare pea gravel, crushed stone, and river rock to help you choose the ideal one for your needs and style. How to determine how much you need, how to install it, and gravel garden maintenance recommendations are covered. By the end, you’ll feel secure choosing gravel that will enrich your outside area for years. Let’s begin!

Size Considerations When Choosing Gravel

Gravel size is important for garden paths and patios. Stone sizes affect how comfy and solid the surface is and how effectively it deters weeds.

Medium Gravel (1/2 inch to 1 inch)

Medium gravel 1/2 to 1 inch works well for sidewalks and other high-traffic areas. The stones are big enough to not dig into shoes yet tiny enough to provide footing. This size discourages weed development while letting rain and moisture through.

Large Gravel (1 to 2 inches)

Large 1- to 2-inch gravel gives a garden walk or sitting area a rustic appeal. The larger size requires fewer stones to cover the same area, saving time and money. Larger gravel is difficult to walk on and needs a weed barrier to keep plants out. It compacts poorly, thus a stabilizing substance may be required on slopes.

River Rock (2 inches and up)

Round river rock 2 inches or larger is ideal for natural stone patios and water features. The massive, smooth stones seem organic and freeform but need a concrete basis and tamping to prevent moving. River rock has wide spaces between stones, which allows more weeds and needs hand removal or weed killer.

Colors and Texture Options for Garden Gravel

Choose a right gravel for your garden, there are several options for colors and textures. The right choice depends on the look you want to achieve and the plants you have.

Natural River Rock

For a natural look, consider rounded river rock gravel in earthy tones of tan, brown and gray. The smooth, multi-sized stones complement shade gardens, Japanese-inspired gardens and creekside plantings. Their rounded shape also makes them comfortable to walk on.

Crushed Stone

Crushed stone gravel comes in shades of gray, brown, tan and off-white. The angular, jagged edges of the stones give crushed gravel a rough, rugged texture. Their size can vary from 1/4 inch up to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.

Crushed stone is a good economical choice for utility areas like driveways, walkways and under decks. It can also be used as a mulch around shrubs and trees. However, the sharp edges may puncture plastic weed barriers and can be uncomfortable to walk or kneel on.

Colored Gravel

Consider colored gravel in red, gold, green, or blue for a colorful garden gravel. Color won’t fade or wash away since the dye is integrated into the pebbles. The rough texture of colored gravel is commonly crushed stone.

Colored gravel is great for rock gardens, pots, paths, and garden bed toppers. It adds aesthetic appeal to foliage and flowers. However, certain landscape designs may not suit the odd colors.

The color and texture of garden gravel vary. Decide how to utilize gravel and the aesthetic you desire. Choose a gravel kind you adore to build a landscape you’ll enjoy for years.

Using Gravel for Pathways, Borders and Other Landscaping

Once you’ve chosen your gravel, it’s time to put it to use in your landscaping. Gravel is extremely versatile and can be used in many areas of your garden.

Pathways

Garden gravel makes walkways that crunch underfoot. Use 3/8” to 3/4” pathway gravel for paths. This size is comfortable to walk on yet big enough to avoid being kicked off. For weed prevention, lay landscaping fabric before adding several inches of gravel. Leave the edges uneven for a rustic effect. Concrete pavers or plastic/metal edging may include gravel for a neater route.

Planting Beds

Gravel mulch around plants, trees, and planting beds controls weeds and moderates soil temperature and moisture. Use 1/4″ or smaller pea gravel or gravel mulch. Mulching usually requires two to three inches of gravel. The tiny pebbles prevent weeds while letting air and water reach the soil and roots. Gravel mulch makes planting beds seem neat and polished.

Drainage

Gravel may enhance drainage in soggy sections of your yard. A gravel-filled drainage trench or dry stream bed may divert excess water away from troubled areas. Large gravel stones (1”–3”) are best for drainage. The larger stones have more air space, improving water flow and reducing blockages. You may need to excavate and slope before adding gravel.

Gravel is great for landscaping and provides a natural-looking yard cover. Try various gravel kinds and sizes in paths, planting beds, drainage areas, and other locations. Find gravel options that meet your demands and match your garden’s design.

Where to Buy Garden Gravel

Once you’ve decided on the type of gravel you want, it’s time to purchase it for your garden project. There are a few options for buying gravel:

Local Landscape Supply Centers

Local landscape supply businesses have a range of gravels. You may view and feel the possibilities in person to choose the ideal one. The personnel may also advise on project size and amount. Prices may be somewhat more than alternatives.

Home Improvement Stores

Home Depot and Lowe’s offer landscaping gravel, stones, and rocks. They usually sell pea gravel, river rock, and crushed stone. Prices are reduced and discounts and deals are common. You’ll have to decide whether they have what you want due to a smaller variety.

Online Retailers

Purchase gravel online for some perks. Prices are comparable and many sites provide free delivery on big purchases. There are several gravel options, from crushed granite to tumbling glass particles. However, you cannot inspect the gravel before buying. Check customer reviews for product quality and appearance. Online shopping makes it hard to estimate quantities.

Conclusion

So there you have it, everything you need to know about choosing the perfect gravel for your garden. With a wide range of colors, sizes, and materials to choose from, you’re sure to find an option that suits your needs and complements your garden’s style. Whether you want gravel that provides drainage and weed suppression, a natural stone to create a decorative path or a colorful aggregate to brighten up a dull space, you now have the knowledge to make an informed choice. Head to your local garden center or gravel yard armed with this information and start browsing their selection. Before you know it, you’ll have found the ideal gravel to give your garden a stylish finishing touch. Happy gardening and good luck with your garden gravel hunt!