Natural stones are elegant landscaping supplies that many tend to underutilize. Whether it is patio stone or flagstone, do make them a part of your next landscape design project. In this article, FSI Landscape Supply elaborates on Kelly Roberson’s tips on how to include natural stones and rocks in your gardening supplies. (Source: Better Homes & Gardens, How to Landscape with Rocks and Stones in Your Yard, by Kelly Roberson, December 9, 2022, https://www.bhg.com/gardening/landscaping-projects/landscape-basics/landscaping-with-rocks-and-stones/ ).

Choosing the perfect stone

Kelly Roberson suggests selecting and adhering to one type of stone instead of combining various colours and textures is advisable.

FSI Landscape Supply agrees, “Many stones like river rock, basalt, marble, flagstone, sandstone, limestone, and granite can be beautifully used in a landscape design. Choosing the right natural stone for your landscape is important due to its impact on your outdoor space’s appearance, durability, safety, maintenance, and cost. Factors such as aesthetics, durability, safety, maintenance requirements, and budget should be considered when selecting the appropriate stone for a particular project.”

Tips for using natural stones effectively

Kelly Roberson advises that you should be careful while deciding where to use rock and stone in landscape design. Also, think through the seasons, creating scenes where the stone blends seamlessly with the garden.

FSI Landscape Supply reiterates, “Considering factors such as the use of flagstone, patio stone accents, creating a natural-looking setting for water features, building stacked-stone walls, and designing rock gardens works wonders. Start by using a few small stones or rocks in your gardening supplies. Combine attractive stones with succulents in planters or use specimen stones to reflect light from solar lanterns on a deck or patio.”

Advantages of using natural stones

Kelly Roberson explains that using rocks and natural stones in your landscaping alongside plants can provide a rejuvenating approach to introducing texture, colour, and year-round appeal to your yard.

FSI Landscape Supply shares a few advantages of doing this.

“Durability: Natural landscaping supplies are extremely durable. They can withstand extreme weather conditions, making them ideal for landscape design. They are less likely to crack, fade, or lose appeal over time.

Low maintenance: Natural gardening supplies like rocks and stones require minimal maintenance once installed. They don’t require regular replacement. They don’t require frequent cleaning, and they don’t need to be resealed regularly.

Versatility: Natural stones come in a wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes, making them versatile and perfect for landscape design. They could be assembled to create a variety of designs, such as walkways, patios, water features, retaining walls, and more.

Aesthetics: Natural stones are visually appealing. They add natural beauty and elegance to any landscape. They can enhance the overall appearance of your outdoor space and create a calming atmosphere.

Sustainability: These landscaping supplies are eco-friendly, as they are sourced from the earth and do not require any manufacturing processes, which can be energy-intensive and polluting. They are also recyclable and can be repurposed in future projects.”

Kelly Roberson believes that strategically placed flagstone, patio stone, or rocks can significantly impact the look and feel of your outdoors. FSI Landscape Supply concludes, “Gardening supplies like natural stones and aggregates are perfect for your landscape design. You should know how to use them effectively.”