Choose Black Rocks for Insulation
Black has the unique ability to absorb sunlight, which makes it an excellent insulator for the areas where you want to create more warmth. Black rocks, such as polished black river rock, are often used around the bases of trees and other plants in place of mulch. There, they can hold the warmth from the sun, which is important in areas where the ground tends to be too cool to support plant growth.
Use Black Rocks to Improve Drainage
Black rocks also work well in wet areas of landscaping. The dark color prevents them from showing mold and mildew stains, such as what you might see with lighter shades of decorative rock. You can use black rocks to line a water feature. Or you might opt to place them around the exterior part of your house to direct water toward the preferred drainage areas.
Mix & Match Sizes for Definition
You’ll find black rocks come in a range of sizes that can all serve important purposes. For instance, larger black rocks work well as a base layer to cover the ground and hold smaller decorative rocks in place. You can also mix sizes of decorative rocks to add interest to the monotone color scheme.
Create Contrast
Adding contrast to the landscaping design can generate more curb appeal while also highlighting special features. For instance, placing black rocks at the base of a marble fountain can bring the whole feature to life. Alternatively, you could use black rocks with lighter-colored ones, such as snow-white pebbles, to create outdoor art. Many homeowners enjoy using dark rocks to make monograms in statement rock gardens filled with lighter beach pebbles. Dark black rocks also create a walking path that stands out in light sand, like you might see in a Zen garden.
Cover Dark Landscaping Fabric
Landscaping fabric is one of those outdoor materials people love to use for weed prevention and erosion control. However, there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing the fabric peeking out beneath the decorative rocks you place around your home or commercial building. To prevent unsightly dark spots, simply fill the area with black rocks. Ideally, you should plan to have enough decorative rocks so you won’t have to worry too much about the underlying fabric peeking through. But black rocks will blend in with the fabric if they temporarily get moved out of place.
With decorative rocks such as polished black pebbles, landscaping can be a creative endeavor whose beauty lasts for years to come. For expert advice on designing your landscape with rocks and pebbles, reach out to the experts at RS&P Rocks Stones & Pebbles, a premier landscape rock and supply superstore. We specialize in drought-tolerant landscaping materials, including a variety of colored pebbles and river rock. To learn how we can help you create the landscape of your dreams, call us today.
