Gravel is one of the most versatile landscaping materials available—and it’s often understated. The material is easy to maintain, affordable, and simple to install. It’s also eco-friendly—a layer of gravel is semi-permeable and allows the rainwater to replenish groundwater sources beneath the soil, which helps sustain nearby tree roots and vegetation. As a bonus, gravel comes in a variety of colors too, so it can be matched to nearly any color scheme. Here are three ways to use gravel to your advantage in a landscaping design.

3 Landscaping Projects That Are Perfect for Gravel

1. Driveways

When you have a long driveway that travels over a hill or uneven surfaces, rainwater will pool and damage most paving materials, like asphalt or concrete. Gravel, on the other hand, allows water to drain through the soil. This eliminates the possibility of runoff or soil erosion and keeps the pressure off your wallet. Just top-dress the driveway with a new layer of gravel every 10–12 months as needed to keep the surface consistent. Adding a top layer of gravel is much cheaper than paying to patch or refinish a concrete or asphalt driveway. It’s also more effective than a dirt driveway, which kicks up a lot of dust, erodes over time, and creates flooding problems when it rains or snows.

2. Mulch

Gravel can also be used as ground cover in flower beds and around shrubs or trees. Unlike wood mulch, gravel doesn’t attract wood-boring pests like termites, and it’s also a good deterrent against weeds. Use light-colored stones to create contrast and make your garden pop. The material is perfect if you want to plant succulents, cacti, or herbs, and if you want to create a zen rock garden.

3. Pathways

Gravel pathways are charming, and they also make your yard easier to navigate safely. Compared to grass, gravel produces an even surface with fewer tripping hazards, which can be especially important if you’re walking through your property at night. Gravel is also comfortable to walk on; the stones are steady but offer more cushioning than asphalt, brick, or concrete pavers. Many people enjoy the textured appearance next to a cleanly edged lawn, and it can be soothing to hear the stones crunching underfoot as you walk. 

If you’re looking for a supply of high-quality gravel, you can count on Ashcraft Sand & Gravel. Serving Cincinnati and Butler County since 1977, the family-run stone supplier provides washed gravel, pea gravel, and other aggregate materials. Call (513) 367-5700 to learn more about what options are available, or visit the company’s website today.