Landscaping rock is one of the most popular ways to design a yard or outdoor location. It can transform the appearance of your yard. Rock can hide troublesome areas, accentuate a plant’s beauty, and create a unique look that does not require maintenance. There are many different types of landscaping rocks for your needs and style.
If you are interested in learning more about various types of rock and gravel for landscaping, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about seven of our favorite hardscaping products, from pea gravel to river rock. The more you know, the easier it will be to pick out the final product for your design.
Popular Rocks and Gravel for Landscaping Available for Delivery
River Rock
The first choice we will dive into is the river rock, a smooth stone used instead of mulch. It is durable and looks great in any yard, flourishing with natural-looking tones and unique shapes. It appears the best when placed in a water feature like a fountain or a small stream.
Common uses for river rock include:
- Stepping stone fillers
- Decorative drainage options
They are excellent filler rocks.
River rocks can be as small as an inch or as large as three inches. If you want peace in your yard, river rocks are an excellent addition.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is one of the most common types of hardscaping if you are interested in a smaller stone for your landscape. It is smooth, has a pleasing finish, and even offers an affordable price for those with a minimal budget. They look great from a distance and will match any plant in your yard.
Common uses for pea gravel include;
- Dog runs
- Walkways
- Patios
- Playgrounds
One of the most common ways pea gravel is practical in landscaping is for drainage purposes. It is great to touch and tactile, even if you need to work on underground projects for your yard or outdoor area.
Flagstone
Flagstones are flat landscaping rocks, often serving as a base for a patio or a walking path for a yard. They are sedimentary stones split into layers to create appealing shapes and liners.
Common uses for flagstone include;
- Edging around a garden bed
- Fire pit linings
- Paths
- Driveways
Flagstone is a gorgeous material and pairs well with smaller types like pea gravel as a filler. If you do not want rocks, you can use sand to fill the cracks.
Brick Chips
Brick chips are another option, made by chipping off pieces from bricks and smoothing them down for use in landscaping endeavors. They offer an excellent and unique red design, contrasting with plants and helping them stand out in an outdoor area.
Common uses for brick chips include;
- Trails
- Baseball warning tracks
- Planting beds
- Walkways
One of the best parts about brick chips is that they maintain soil temperatures and keep moisture inside the soil. They will help plants grow and work well as ground cover. Unlike other products, brick chips will not rot, fall apart, or fade in the sunlight.
Crushed Stone
Crushed stones, also known as gravel, are another practical way to cover your landscaping with a quality cover. Gravel is produced naturally and does not come from a machine, as apparent in the natural-looking, rounded edges of the final product.
Common uses for crushed stones include;
- Walkways
- Planter liners
- Filler
The smooth rocks prevent the stones from hurting anyone who walks on them.
Often, crushed stone is one of the more affordable options if you want a filler for your area. It will provide cohesion anyone will enjoy in an outdoor space, offering a solid color lining your plants.
Lava Rocks
Lava rocks come in vibrant colors, most often a deep reddish brown or black. You can also get assorted sizes and textures. Lava rocks are popular in Central Oregon since there are so many native to the area.
Common uses for lava rocks include:
- Weed growth suppressant
- Yard coverage
- Drainage
Lava rocks will not decompose so, unlike mulch, there is no need for them to receive a replacement in time. They look excellent and will ensure your yard looks unique and bright at all times of the day.
Marble Rocks
Marble rocks are smooth and classy, opulent, and eye-catching. If you want an expensive appearance, marble rocks are an excellent choice. Of course, they cost a bit more than other rocks at almost one dollar per square foot.
Common uses for marble rocks include:
- Pathway lining
- A method to add alkaline to the soil
- Plant bed covering
These stones are excellent if you want a modern look in your home. If you are willing to splurge, they will pull your landscape together with a simple pour.
Boulders
If you are looking for something bigger, boulders are an excellent choice. They are large and will draw the eye to various spots around your yard. They will also add texture to your yard, making it a unique place for you to experience.
Boulders look excellent in a yard. However, it is critical to note that boulders are much heavier than other rock options. Once they are in place, they are tricky to move and will require additional help to shift to another location.
Need Delivery and Installation of Rocks and Gravel?
Are you interested in using rocks and gravel for landscaping but aren’t sure about the delivery or installation process? We have you covered at Bartlett Excavation and Paving. Our team has offered excavation, demolition, property cleanup, paving, and other services in the Central Oregon area for over thirty years, rich in family tradition and loyalty. We provide landscape material delivery and setup. Reach out to us online or give us a call at (541) 447-3301.