Select Your Succulents
There’s a reason succulents tend to dominate rock gardens, and that’s because adding them creates the ultimate low-maintenance landscaping design. Xeriscaping plans are often based on mimicking the appearance of a desert landscape, and decorative rocks create well-drained areas that prevent succulents from becoming waterlogged.
When adding succulents, try to include plants that have varying heights and colors. For instance, an organ pipe cactus will create a unique look that works beautifully with smaller succulents such as Echeveria, and they’ll both look amazing in a bed of polished black river rock.
Consider Adding Trees
Although succulents are often used in place of trees in desert climates, you might want to add a few native ones that fit in with the surrounding landscape in other areas. Bristlecone pine trees are a beautiful addition to rock gardens, and they provide landscapes with a year-round touch of green. Other types of pine trees can also work well in rock gardens, especially dwarf varieties that require less water.
Korean firs are another option that tend to grow a little shorter than the typical pine tree. These trees produce beautiful lavender cones in the spring that can add an unexpected pop of color among the other plants in your rock garden.
Add Height with Shrubs
Shrubs can be used in rock gardens to create a sense of privacy, or you might opt to make them a focal point in areas with high visibility. The ideal types of shrubs for rock gardens should prefer well-draining soil while also being moderately heat tolerant.
The dwarf mugo pine shrub can grow to be as much as 10 feet wide, but it doesn’t get very tall. People tend to use this shrub around the perimeters of buildings and along the interior edges of walkways because of its dark green needles, which contrast nicely with decorative rocks such as snow-white pebbles. Heath is another option that grows well in moist but well-draining soil, which is a hallmark trait of rock gardens.
Fill the Space with Flowers
The contrast between colorful flowers and neutral shades of river rock and beach pebbles creates a long-lasting impression on visitors to your property. When you select flowers, look for perennials that prefer well-drained soil, and make sure you pick ones meant for either sunny or shady conditions that match their intended space.
Columbines produce beautiful flowers that also attract hummingbirds. Creeping phlox can serve as ground cover in areas where you prefer more color, but you’ll need to trim it back if it begins to encroach on areas where you want more of the rocks to show. Try adding multiple types of flowering plants in your rock garden that all complement each other with beautiful colors.
No matter what types of plants you have in your landscape, decorative rocks, stones, and pebbles can give them a unique touch of beauty, depth, and character. If you’re looking for the greatest assortment of high-quality stones, from pure gold river rock to black polished pebbles, call on the experienced professionals at RS&P Rock Stones & Pebbles, a premier landscape rock and supply superstore. Contact one of our friendly team members today at (866) 380-0770 to learn how we can help you create the landscape of your dreams.
