There’s a lot of talk about mulch these days – but keep in mind that not all mulch is made from wood products. Gravel makes a great mulch too. It helps keep moisture in and weeds out, just like organic mulch. 

Drought-adapted plants (like succulents and California lilacs, sages, and manzanitas) appreciate gravel at their base, which improves drainage and keeps the plant crowns warm and dry – just the way they like it!

Aside from being relatively permanent, gravel mulch is also fireproof. Fire-safety guidelines suggest a strip of gravel near building walls rather than wood mulch and plants. Makes sense. 

Aesthetically, gravel gives you a natural but modern look, and it’s  available in a range of grays, browns, golds – and even black. These angular gravels are really just broken rocks, which lock together to form a stable surface, good for mulching or paths. River pebbles, which have been rounded off by tumbling in natural streams, are good in small spaces. 

If you sprinkle a thin layer of gravel on top of soil, weeds will grow like crazy. That’s why we replace the weed-filled soil with clean, dry gravel to a depth of at least 3 inches. Not enough room for weeds!

Ask your Area Manager for samples of gravel mulch – or contact our Design and Construction team for a gravel-garden design that meets water and fire requirements. We’re here to help!