Gravel can elevate a landscape project when chosen and installed correctly—but it’s also easy to misuse. The wrong choices lead to instability, a messy appearance, weed issues, and extra maintenance. Below are some of the most common mistakes contractors make with gravel, along with expert insight from FSI Landscape Supply on how to avoid them. (Source: Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Common Gravel Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Garden—Plus What to Do Instead, By Luke Miller, July 17, 2025, https://www.bhg.com/mistakes-when-using-gravel-in-garden-11767556 ).

1. Using the Wrong Type of Gravel

One of the biggest errors is picking the wrong kind of gravel for the job. Smooth stones like pea gravel and river rock don’t compact well and can shift underfoot. Crushed stone, decomposed granite, or other angular aggregates interlock better, making them ideal for walkways and patios.

FSI Landscape Supply notes, “Choosing between smooth and angular aggregates isn’t just about looks—it determines stability and safety. For patios and pathways, angular gravel in the ¼″–¾″ range compacts tightly and provides a solid surface for foot traffic and tools. Smooth aggregates work best for decorative accents, borders, or dry creek beds, but shouldn’t be used as a primary surface for high-traffic areas.”

2. Picking the Wrong Color

Gravel covers large areas, so color choice dramatically impacts the overall design. A color that clashes with walls, plantings, or other hardscape materials can disrupt the entire aesthetic.

FSI Landscape Supply comments, “Aggregate color selection is a key design choice. Contractors should treat gravel like any other design element—color can harmonize or compete with the rest of the landscape. Warm-toned gravels complement earth-toned stonework, while blue-gray or white gravels can create a cooler, modern look. It’s worth setting up small sample areas so clients can see how the aggregate looks in changing light.”

3. Placing Gravel Under Messy Trees

Installing gravel beneath trees that drop fruit, leaves, or sticky sap creates ongoing maintenance headaches. Debris accumulates between the stones, making it difficult to clean out effectively.

FSI Landscape Supply insight, “When planning gravel zones, take into account the surrounding trees. Gravel under messy canopies quickly collects debris and encourages weed growth as organic matter builds up. Placing gravel a few feet away from these trees or adding proper edging can save hours of cleanup and prevent weed issues down the road.”

4. Not Containing the Gravel

Without proper edging, gravel will migrate into plant beds, onto lawns, or across walkways. This not only looks messy but can also create safety hazards.

FSI Landscape Supply shares, “Edging is essential to maintain clean lines and prevent gravel from spreading. Whether using metal, wood, brick, or concrete, edging locks the aggregate in place and preserves the design. It’s a simple step that significantly enhances both function and appearance, minimizing the need for regular cleanup.”

5. Skipping Underlayment

Another common mistake is spreading gravel directly onto soil without any underlayment. Without a permeable landscape fabric, weeds quickly take over.

FSI Landscape Supply comments, “A high-quality, permeable fabric underneath the gravel is one of the best defenses against weeds. It allows water to drain while blocking soil from mixing with the aggregate. Skipping this step often leads to weed growth and a shorter lifespan for the installation. Fabric is a one-time investment that pays off with reduced maintenance.”

6. Poor Site Preparation

Laying gravel straight on bare ground is a recipe for uneven surfaces, rutting, and sinking areas over time. A stable base is crucial for any gravel installation.

FSI Landscape Supply advises, “Proper site prep makes all the difference. A compacted base of 4–6 inches of crushed aggregate provides stability, while a top layer of 2–3 inches of gravel creates a durable finish. Skipping this step leads to shifting, settling, and early failures that require regrading. Investing time in building a strong base ensures a long-lasting, professional result.”

7. Ignoring Maintenance

While gravel is low-maintenance, it isn’t maintenance-free. Without occasional raking, topping up, and early weed removal, even the best installations can deteriorate.

FSI Landscape Supply observes, “Gravel surfaces benefit from seasonal care—raking to even out low spots, adding fresh material when fines get lost, and pulling weeds before they take hold. These small steps keep the surface functional, attractive, and easy to walk on. Contractors who educate clients on this routine upkeep set expectations and protect the quality of their work.”

Why These Details Matter

For landscapers and contractors, gravel mistakes lead to unhappy clients, callbacks, and preventable repairs. The right aggregates, proper installation techniques, and minimal ongoing care ensure projects look great and last for years.

FSI Landscape Supply emphasizes, “Gravel and other aggregates are more than just fill material—they’re structural and aesthetic components of a landscape. By choosing the right grade and color, preparing a proper base, using fabric and edging, and building maintenance into the plan, contractors can deliver installations that stay functional and beautiful long-term. These best practices are what separate average projects from exceptional ones.”