Gardens
In this area of the yard, plants are typically arranged closely and vary in height. This can help you achieve the desired layered effect many homeowners want. Before spreading the beach pebbles, measure and mark your garden for optimal landscaping. Doing so helps you determine how many decorative stones you may need and how deep they need to be layered.
The depth preference depends on the soil type beneath the beach pebbles. For instance, decorative rocks on hilly surfaces should be placed in a layer of five or six inches above the soil they’re sitting on. The pebble size determines the depth, especially on uneven land. With larger beach pebbles, such as black polished pebbles, depth isn’t as crucial, and layering one or two inches more could suffice.
Pathways
Uneven ground is commonly encountered when building pathways. In these instances, the depth should be a bit more—about six to seven inches—to maintain proper placement. Other factors, such as an inability to level the surface, may also play a role. The aim is to select the depth of the stone placement based on the surface and size of the beach pebbles to avoid an uneven appearance once the landscape layering is complete.
The decorative rocks not only enhance the beauty of the pathway but also create a smoother texture, especially if erosion was a previous issue. Properly layering the stones can safeguard the soil and ensure a smooth walking surface.
Shrubs & Trees
When using beach pebbles around trees and shrubs, put down a three-inch layer of stones. You don’t want to suffocate the delicate roots of the trees, particularly roots that are shallow.
Keeping weeds away from the shrubs and trees is one benefit of using decorative pebbles. Weed barrier fabric is applied before the stones are placed, but with the additional spread of beach pebbles for a few inches, existing weeds will die. For new weeds to grow, they would need to do so above the fabric. However, the decorative rocks will make that challenging.
Stone Mixtures
If you want to mix beach pebbles of different sizes—such as snow-white pebbles and pure gold river rock—in a garden for color and texture, make sure the depth is greater than the standard recommendation of five to six inches. On the other hand, a shallower depth is acceptable if the mixture consists solely of smaller beach pebbles. When it comes to layering your landscape, decorative stone suppliers can provide insights and tips.
No matter what type of landscaping project you’re planning, you can enhance its character and beauty with beach pebbles and decorative rocks in a variety of sizes and colors, from pure gold pebbles to polished black river rock. For expert advice on designing your landscape with decorative 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 pebble and river rock. To learn how we can help you create the landscape of your dreams, call us today.
