Place Boulders Next to Each Other
Large boulders rarely look good when placed individually. Instead, it’s better to group them in clusters of three or more. This makes the placement look intentional. Try to think of boulders as a decorative element, like a beautiful flowering shrub or ornate tree. Gently arrange them in small groups to show them off properly. A popular choice is picking one focus boulder and arranging it with a few small “helping stones,” such as grey or black polished pebbles.
Accent Water Fixtures with Large Decorative Rocks
If your home has a pond, waterfall, stream, or other water fixture, this is the perfect spot for large river rocks. A clump of decorative rocks looks beautiful and natural when arranged near water. They can call attention to your water feature, and the fine water spray can highlight the sparkles and natural color variations in your decorative rocks.
Nest Decorative Rocks in Plants
This technique has its origins in Japanese gardening traditions, but it works well in all sorts of landscapes. Nesting involves placing large landscape rocks in a bed of plants so it looks like the decorative rock is rising from the plants. As long as the plants are shorter than the boulders, your landscaping features won’t be lost in the greenery. In addition to looking lovely and organic, this arrangement is also good for your plants. Boulders can provide a little shade and moisture that protects delicate plants from the elements.
Use Decorative Rocks along Changes in Elevation
Large boulders look very nice when placed in spots with changing elevation. You want your decorative rocks to look like they’re part of the landscape, not random items tossed on the lawn. Some people like to nestle them in a “waterfall” effect going down a hill. If you have any stairs set along the elevation change, large decorative rocks can work very well as a border for the steps. Decorative rocks are especially helpful in this type of spot because they can act as a natural retaining wall. A properly placed boulder can keep soil from slipping down a hill when it rains.
Fill Empty Corners with Decorative Rocks
Many great places for large river rocks in the yard are spots where things already exist. While decorative rocks do make a nice accompaniment for plants, fountains, or stairs, they also work well on their own. An especially great spot for large decorative rocks is in a corner. A lovely decorative rock garden or featured bolder can fill up an empty space and highlight your landscaping stones.
No matter what type of landscaping project you’re planning, you can enhance its character and beauty with decorative rock in a variety of sizes and colors. For expert advice on designing your landscape with rocks, 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 pebbles and river rock. To learn how we can help you create the landscape of your dreams, call us today at (866) 380-0580.
