If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and style to your garden, decorative stones are the way to go. Not only do they enhance the aesthetics of your garden, but they also offer several practical benefits. From low-maintenance to weed control, the uses are endless.
In this blog, we will dive deeper into the types of decorative stones available, as well as guiding you on how to choose the right stones for your garden.
What are the different types of decorative stones?
There are a huge variety of different types of decorative stones, but here are some of the most popular types that you could use in your garden:
Gravel Stone
One popular type of decorative stone is gravel, which comes in a variety of colours and sizes. Gravel stones are low-maintenance and versatile, making them a great choice for garden paths, driveways, edgings, and ground cover. They can also be used as a base layer under larger stones or pavers.
Slate Gravel
Slate gravel is another popular type of decorative stone, because it’s known for its durability and versatility, making it a great choice for a wide range of garden styles. Slate gravel comes in a variety of colours, ranging from deep blues to earthy browns, so it’s easy to find one that matches the aesthetic of your garden.
Garden Chippings
Garden chippings are typically made from crushed stone and can be used for pathways or as an alternative to traditional mulch. They come in a variety of colours, sizes and textures. It’s crucial to properly prepare the soil before laying down garden chippings to ensure they stay in place and don’t interfere with plant growth.
Garden Cobbles
Garden cobbles are small, rounded stones that come in a range of colours and sizes, from pebble-sized to larger rocks. They can add texture and visual interest to your garden and are versatile enough to be used for pathways, as borders, or as accents around plants and other features. Garden cobbles are a great choice for outdoor use due to their durability and low-maintenance.
What are the benefits of using decorative stones in your garden?
Not only can decorative stones transform the look of your garden, but they also offer a selection of practical benefits too including:
They enhance the aesthetics of your garden
Using decorative stones can enhance your garden’s overall aesthetics. Because many types come in a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes, you can easily customise them to fit your specific taste. Additionally, they can be used to create different textures and patterns in your garden, giving it a unique and stylish look. Whether you prefer a more natural or modern look, there are stones available to suit your preferences.
They’re low-maintenance and long-lasting
One of the major benefits of using decorative stones is that they require minimal maintenance. Unlike organic mulch, which needs to be replaced regularly, stones don’t decompose and can last for years with little upkeep. Additionally, they can help reduce the need for watering and weeding in your garden. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, long-lasting way to beautify your outdoor space, using decorative stones is definitely an option for you.
They help retain soil moisture and reduce weeds
Decorative stones help retain soil moisture because they reduce evaporation and with that, soil erosion is prevented, allowing plants to better absorb water and nutrients. Another benefit is their ability to reduce weed growth. They block sunlight from reaching the soil, preventing weed seeds from germinating and reducing the need for weed control products.
How to choose the right decorative stones for your garden
When it comes to choosing decorative stones for your garden, several factors should be considered, for example:
Consider the size and shape of your garden
It’s important to consider the size and shape of your outdoor space. Smaller gardens may benefit from smaller stones, such as pea gravel or crushed granite, which can add texture and interest without overwhelming the space. On the other hand, larger gardens can accommodate larger stones and boulders, which can create a more dramatic impact.
Decide on the primary purpose of your stones
Decorative stones can be used for a variety of purposes, so it’s important to decide what the purpose of the stones will be. Different types of stones have unique features and can create different effects in your garden. For example, larger stones may be better suited for creating a dramatic focal point, while smaller pebbles can be used to create a more subtle texture or pattern.
Think about the colour scheme of your overall garden design
The colour of the stones you choose can complement or clash with your existing garden design, so it’s important to choose wisely. Neutral-coloured stones like grey or beige can provide a versatile base, while brightly coloured stones like red or blue can add a pop of colour and create a focal point.
Get in touch for more advice
Decorative stones are an excellent way to add beauty and functionality to your garden. Choosing the right type can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be when you consider the above important factors.
If you need any further advice, or you’d like to know more about what we offer, our friendly experts can provide you with more information and guide you and help you choose the perfect decorative stones for your garden. Get in touch with us today!
