![pea gravel pea gravel](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/88bcd7_1833168b16564fb6aaa9d03173762a21~mv2_d_3088_2056_s_2.jpg)
When she’s not digging in the dirt, Julie writes about food, education, parenting and gardening.One of the most versatile and cost-effective materials for use in landscaping is pea gravel. Today, she lives and gardens on the high plains of Colorado. Julie Christensen learned about gardening on her grandfather’s farm and mother’s vegetable garden in southern Idaho. Unless you’re finishing a small area, it’s usually most economical to order rocks by the truckload, rather than buying them by the bag. Don’t allow the weeds to get ahead of you. Pull any weeds that appear by hand or apply an organic herbicide. Installation tips: Lay down commercial-grade landscaping fabric to keep weeds at bay, although these fabrics won’t eliminate every weed. It has a crisper look than decomposed granite and works well in contemporary landscapes. Crushed stone comes in a variety of colors and usually costs more than decomposed granite. Crushed StoneĬrushed stone is similar to decomposed granite, but the rocks aren’t crushed quite as finely. Over time, decomposed granite works its way into the soil, and you might need to add more. If dragged in the house, it makes a bit of a mess and can scratch hardwood floors. One disadvantage to decomposed granite is that it can adhere to your shoes or your pet’s feet. You can also add a stabilizer product to it, which glues the pieces together.
#Pea gravel install
Many landscapers install it in layers, compacting each layer for added durability. At about $40 per cubic yard, decomposed granite is reasonably affordable and holds up for a long time. It’s usually rust-colored and fades to tan in the sun. Because of its fine texture, it is often used on paths or patios. Decomposed Graniteĭecomposed granite is simply granite that has weathered to a combination of tiny rocks and silt. Lay down landscaping fabric prior to installation and use a blower to clean up leaves and yard debris. Weeding chores are difficult with river rocks. When installing river rocks, opt for a variety of sizes for the most natural look. By the pound costs range from 5 cents to 35 cents by the ton costs range from $100 to over $700 per ton. Costs vary considerably, but river rocks are typically sold by the pound or the ton. These smooth rocks create a rustic, natural feel and are often used to edge flower beds or create drainage areas within beds. River rocks come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 1 inch up to several inches across. Gravel driveways need regular maintenance, especially in snowy areas where snow plows displace the gravel. In most cases, you’ll need at least an 8 inch layer of gravel. Start with larger rocks to form a sturdy base and pour the gravel on top. When installing it on roads and driveways, make sure the road is properly graded first to allow adequate drainage. Gravel is used mostly for driveways, although it can be used for paths and patios. This shape allows the gravel to meld together when compacted to form a tight, durable surface. Machine crushed gravel has triangular sides that fit together.
![pea gravel pea gravel](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/85/9a/2b/859a2be6778ca835b5eb12a08b75454f.jpg)
In most cases, wood chip or other organic mulches work better with plantings. Finally, like all rock mulches, pea gravel compacts the soil and holds heat, which can damage plants.
![pea gravel pea gravel](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/04c3d6_3f367f9ea9a84e60b720c8a3747fa114~mv2.jpg)
Additionally, pea gravel is a pain to remove should you ever want to change your garden layout. If it’s not edged well, you’ll find it in your lawn and flower beds. The main disadvantage of pea gravel is its tendency to travel. Pea gravel ranges in price from $35 per cubic yard to well over $50 per cubic yard. Pea gravel comes in a variety of colors, and prices can vary considerably, depending on the color you choose. It is often used as a mulch in bare areas and is sometimes used under xeriscape-type plants. Slightly rounded and as the name implies, about the size of peas, pea gravel is a long-lasting solution for paths and walkways. Below, we’ve included information on the most common types of landscaping rocks: pea gravel, gravel, crushed stone, river rocks and decomposed granite. Slabs of rock are usually the costliest materials for edging and building materials, but smaller rocks are a durable and affordable option. Hardscapes include paths, patios and driveways and you’ll find numerous materials at your local landscaping supply company from which to choose. More than anything else, the hardscapes you add to your landscape give it structure and aesthetic appeal.