Not Biodegradable
Plant-based mulch invites bugs because the material decomposes, providing a source of food. The most savory mulches for insects are grass clippings, compost, wood chips, and shredded bark. However, bugs can’t feed on landscaping rocks, although they might use the stones for shelter. Still, by installing certain types of pebbles, you can deter them.
Beach pebbles are a stellar choice. Bugs shy away from the brilliance of dazzling snow-white pebbles, and soft-bodied insects, such as slugs and snails, dislike their bumpy texture. Another option is green jade pebbles, which have chiseled shapes with pointy edges. Meanwhile, you’ll delight in their turquoise color, which turns dark aquamarine when wet.
Supremely Durable
Landscaping stones that come from riverbeds and beaches are shaped by rushing currents and crashing waves. Unlike spongy mulch, landscaping rocks are firm. Thus, they can handle the heavy traffic on walkways, garden paths, and driveways.
Flat beach pebbles are ideal, since they’re level. They provide stable footing for walkways and sound support for vehicle tires. Mexican beach pebbles are smooth with rounded edges. Since they’re light gray, they’ll complement any color scheme in your landscape.
Unfazed by the Elements
Organic mulch loses moisture and turns dry unless it rains or you water it. Still, too much water makes mulch soggy. In turn, plant roots die, deprived of vital oxygen or infected by fungus.
Conversely, landscaping rocks are impervious to moisture. In fact, they provide excellent soil drainage, curbing soil erosion and preventing plant death from soil saturation.
If you live in an area prone to wildfires, mulch can serve as kindling, whereas decorative rocks are inflammable. Wind can blow away light materials such as pine needle mulch, but landscaping rocks hold their ground without budging. Moreover, the sun’s ultraviolet rays won’t fade the vivid colors of landscaping stones. Thus, mixed gold pebbles retain their soothing earth tones, such as beige, cream, and fawn brown. Meanwhile, decorative rocks remain gorgeous, with fascinating marbled patterns that are permanently etched in them.
Don’t Need Replacing
Most types of organic mulch require annual replenishing or replacement. That’s because as it decomposes, mulch loses substance and depth. Consequently, weeds take over. Hence, mulch mandates regular restoration, consuming precious funds each year.
Since landscaping rocks don’t diminish or vanish, you’ll save money in the long run. Plus, they faithfully fend off weeds. For the staunchest weed barriers, install decorative rocks 2 inches or less in diameter. Gaps form around stones larger than 2 inches, leaving space for weeds to sprout. For the best weed prevention, layer your landscaping rocks at least 3 inches deep. Before installing them, apply a water-permeable barrier over the soil, such as landscape fabric. It will keep soil off the stones, giving weeds no foothold.
Black polished pebbles are stylish, with their bold color and vibrant glow. White pebbles look pristine and equally radiant. Meanwhile, pure gold pebbles are grounding to the eye, with their warm brown hues and light markings.
No matter what type of landscaping project you’re planning, you can enhance its character and beauty with a variety of decorative landscape stones. For advice on designing your landscape with decorative rocks and beach 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 Mexican beach pebble and river rocks. To learn how we can help you enhance the look of your landscape, call us today at (866) 380-0770.
