Stone Options For Your Garden Path
Choosing the right decorative stone for your garden path requires an understanding of the options available. From pea gravel to more unique options, the choice is only limited by your imagination and budget. The following will help guide you through the various options so you can make an informed choice when you visit a decorative stone quarry to make your final decision.
Gravel
Gravel is comprised of small stones that are relatively comfortable underfoot, so it is often recommended for path making. It comes in two main varieties—pea gravel and machine-crushed gravel. Pea gravel has a rounded shape, which is part of what makes it smooth to walk upon. You can find it in a range of colors, so if one quarry doesn't have the color you desire, another quarry might. The main issue with pea gravel is that it must be contained by tall edging because the rounded shape makes it travels easily. Machine-crushed gravel also comes in many colors and is comfortable underfoot, but since it is crushed by a machine, it has a more angular shape. This causes it to compact better so it is less prone to travel.
Crushed stone
Crushed stone is a bit larger than gravel, but it can still be used on paths and patios. The options in crushed stones are regional and depend on what type of stone is available in the local quarries. Granite is common, as is quartz. The type of rock determines the color and, to some extent, the shape of the stone, so you may want to visit a few quarries to see your options. Much like machine-crushed gravel, these stones are angular so they don't travel as much from the path area. They are larger, which means they may not be as comfortable underfoot as gravel.
River stones
The large, smoothed stones that are typically called river rock are heavy enough to stay in place. The main issue with having them in paths is that their larger size makes them uncomfortable to walk upon. Instead, they are often combined with decorative stone pavers. The pavers are placed along the path almost like stepping stones, and then the river rock is used to fill in the gaps between them. This is an attractive way to combine two stone materials into a useful but eye-catching garden path.
Contact a decorative stone quarry or supplier in your area to see the options you have available.
Share