Gravel is one of the most versatile and attractive landscaping materials, with the perfect combination of aesthetic appeal, durability, and low maintenance. Depending on your needs, gravel can give your outdoor space a pop of color, soften hard edges, and stand up to abuse that would damage grass or other surfaces. Here are a few tips for incorporating gravel into your landscaping project.

How to Use Gravel Around Your Home

1. Incorporate Leafy Plants Along the Boundaries

Gravel pathways through a garden can be visually striking, especially if you put leafy plants along the edges. This can help soften the boundary between the stone and your grass, especially on curves or at the beginning of the path. For the best results, choose low-lying plants with long branches and small leaves.

2. Mix in Bigger Stones

Mixing gravel with paving stones, decorative rocks, and other larger landscaping materials can add some visual interest, especially in open spaces. Choosing stones with a contrasting color can also create a sense of visual drama, especially between the boundaries of flower beds and pathways. If your yard floods in heavy rains, larger stones can also serve as a bridge over rainwater channels.

3. Choose Your Gravel Carefully

Gravel typically comes in two forms—natural river rock and crushed stone. Manufactured stone tends to bind together well, making it an ideal choice for walkways and other high-traffic areas. Smooth river stones are generally preferred for decorative designs in low-traffic areas and come in many distinct colors.

Regardless of the project you have in front of you, consider gravel to add a distinct texture and vary the color scheme. If you’re planning a new garden or a major outdoor remodeling project, Surplus Sales has the high-quality landscaping materials you need at the best prices in the market. With locations in Corbin, Elkton, and Paducah, KY, they’ve been the area’s go-to source for do-it-yourself projects since 1995. Visit their website for a closer look at their landscaping materials, or call (606) 523-9166 to speak with a friendly representative.