The Best Rocks for Landscaping

Rocks Instead of Mulch

• One excellent mulch substitute is lava rock. This rock is porous with a rich, deep rust color. Although it is lightweight, it normally does not wash away as easily as mulch. The inexpensive rock contrasts well with decorative pots or foliage.

  Crushed stone is another choice for flower beds. It is comprised of several types of rock and is perfect as a border or for a walkway. The various rocks in crushed rock create an interesting combination of textures and colors.

Colorful Rock Choices

• Schist comes in many different colors and is perfect for adding a splash of color. Blueschist and greenschist are two types, named for their brilliant dominant color. The marble-like appearance of this rock springs to life when polished. Serpentine is a dramatic green rock often used as an accent piece because of its brilliance. This rock is not always easy to find in retail stores and may have to be special ordered.

Ideal Rocks for Patios and Pathways

• Flagstone is a flat rock perfect for walkways. As a durable choice, flagstone can handle the foot traffic that breaks softer rocks into pieces. Crushed stone is another good choice for a pathway due to its gravel-like feel. While a bit expensive comparatively, river rock is often used as a charming pathway for a cottage-style home. The smooth rock can also be used as a decorative feature alongside a walkway.

Artifical Rocks

• Fake rocks hide eyesores like utility boxes or visible piping. The popular large rocks add a definite dramatic accent to any lawn. If you're thinking about buying a large rock accent, think about buying a fake one. The increased flexibility you have for adjusting the rock to sit at just the perfect angle, or moving it around the yard as needed, elevates the status of a fake boulder to a thing of beauty.

Landscape Boulders

• Landscape boulders are perfect for adding a terraced look to any gentle slope. The trick is to bury the bottom of the rock about 4 to 6 inches into the ground. Decorative grasses around the rock add a distinctive touch of authenticity, like the rock has been there for decades.