How to Choose the Right Gravel for Your Garden

In gardening, gravel plays a few important roles. Besides being an environmental benefit in preventing erosion, gravel is also cost-effective, low maintenance, and simply wonderful to look at. The number of reasons to choose gravel has increased over the years, especially now that people have found a solid interest in ‘plant parenthood.’

But, to enjoy all the benefits of using gravel in the garden, one must first know which gravel is the right one. So, let’s take a deeper look at this article.

How do you choose the right gravel for your garden?

Gravel is a versatile material. It is a mixture of crushed stones and sand, and you can use it in several ways. Gravel is available in different sizes, textures, colours, and types. In comparison to other landscaping and hardscaping materials, gravel is the most affordable. However, choosing the right gravel for the garden might be a challenging decision to make.

There are factors that you should consider before making a final decision. Fortunately, landscape professionals exist to guide you through the decision process.

Here is a list of some of the helpful ways you can choose the right gravel for your garden:

1. Determine the purpose of your gravel

Before choosing gravel based on its looks, you must first determine the purpose of your gravel. How do you want to use it? Which part of your landscape do you want to use it for? Once you have gathered answers to these questions, it will be easier for you to decide on your gravel’s size, colour, and texture.

Some gravel compacts to form a stable surface, thus, helping in preventing erosion. In addition, the stable surface allows wheelchairs or vehicles to roll across a gravel patio smoothly. Some gravels are used for making footpaths and driveways, and others are mixed with stepping stones. 

Driveways and Paths

For driveways and paths, you need to consider more the physical appearance like the colour, shape, and texture. It would be best not to choose the type that is too soft and too brittle. Medium-sized gravel (10mm to 14mm for paths and 20mm for driveways) is ideal for this project.

Decorative Gravel

For decorative purposes, many colourful gravel options are available in Perth. Some of which are the blue metal and pea gravel with its chestnut brown beauty. You can choose from different available options in Mazzega’s Landscaping Supplies.

2. Set a budget

Setting a budget will let you be aware of your limits. The cost of gravel varies depending on the availability, the type of rock, and the size of the stone. If you want to cut down on costs, you can support suppliers by purchasing gravel from your local area and purchasing them in bulk. However, do not overspend your money on gravel alone because you need other things to complete your project.

3. Know which colours work best for your existing garden and landscape

Colour is another factor to consider seriously. Choosing the right colour that complements your existing garden and landscape will complete the overall look. For example, choosing warm-toned gravels will do the trick if you want your garden to breathe out warm temperatures. This combination also invites bright light to surface into your garden, making it send off a refreshing aura. On the other hand, if your flowers are pale in colour, choosing cool-toned gravels might be a wise decision. This combination highlights your blossoms.

One quick trick: Take as many samples of gravel from your local store, wash and dry them thoroughly, and see which ones best fit your garden.

4. Calculate the estimated quantity of gravel for your garden

After deciding on the colour, it is time to estimate and calculate the quantity of gravel needed for your garden. How much gravel do you need? First, determine the size of your area and the depth of gravel you require. Landscape professionals and suppliers know how to do the math. Then, all you have to do is present your estimation. Knowing and understanding how much gravel you need is a crucial point in avoiding wastage and unnecessary expense.

5. Decide if you want to use gravel as primary ground cover for your garden

Using gravel as a primary ground cover for your garden with drainage issues requires choosing a type of gravel that does not compact. You may choose between crushed rock gravel, pea gravel, and decomposed granite as the best candidates for this project.

Choose The Right Gravel With Us

The right gravel always depends on how it meets your needs. For some, a rainbow stone might be the right one, but pea gravel is the best choice for others. The five helpful tips mentioned in this article will give you the basics in choosing the right gravel for your gardening needs. However, the wisest decision to make is still to consult with those who are experts in these products. If you want to find the best gravel in Perth, contact Mazzega’s Landscaping Supplies.