Both Mulch & Decorative Rocks Have Appealing Qualities
Mulch is organic groundcover that can have some degree of curb appeal if you’re selective about the materials you use, which can include chipped wood, bark, sawdust, peat moss, or straw. With standard mulch, there are three basic colors: black, brown, and red. Decorative rocks such as Mexican beach pebbles are inorganic, meaning they’re not susceptible to decomposition. With colors and textures alone, there are multiple possibilities. Landscaping rocks also have a practically indefinite lifespan.
Decorative Rocks Make Great Borders in Mulched Areas
As we pointed out earlier, it doesn’t have to be one or the other with mulch and decorative rocks. One option is to use landscaping rocks such as white pebbles as a border for your flower beds or garden. You can also do this around trees where you just have mulch right now. The decorative rocks along the outside also protect the mulch on the inside from rain and storm runoff. This also keeps the mulch in place. Edging strips can be placed around the outside to keep the stones from slipping or moving outward.
Landscaping Rocks Work Well on Top of Mulch
Over time, mulch sometimes becomes discolored or unsightly for various reasons, and this often results in the need for partial or full replacement. If you’re hoping to extend the life of your mulch, decorative rocks such as polished black river rock can serve this purpose if you place them on top of mulch you’ve already put down.
The lower layer of mulch directly in contact with the ground helps the soil retain moisture and nutrients better. This is beneficial if you have plants in the same area. The top layer of decorative rocks protects the mulch and gives you some added visual interest.
You also won’t have to replace your mulch as often. You can even let it fully break down over the years. If this happens, you’ll still have a beneficial and attractive top layer of decorative rocks.
Keep the Needs of Your Plants/Flowers in Mind
While there are many ways to effectively mix decorative rocks and mulch together, it’s important to give some consideration to your plants and flowers. With flowers that need a more direct supply of nutrients, it’s best to use mulch in the immediate area. You can still use landscaping rocks, just not directly up against more delicate flowers or plants.
Don’t Forget the Landscape Fabric
The specifics of what you’ll need to do to achieve the desired results depend on how you prefer to mix and match decorative rocks and mulch. Regardless of what applies to your landscaping plans, remember to use landscape fabric to deter weeds and allow for sufficient drainage and airflow.
No matter what type of landscaping project you’re planning, you can mix mulch with decorative rocks, stones, or beach pebbles to add immense depth, character, and beauty to your outdoor space. When you’re ready to get started on your landscaping plan, reach out to the experts at RS&P Rock Stones & Pebbles, a premier provider of river rock, beach pebbles, and a wide variety of decorative stones. To learn how we can help you create the landscape of your dreams, call us today at (866) 380-0580.
