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Gravel Driveways: How To Install A Gravel Driveway and What Gravel To Use – A Step By Step Guide Nov 20,2023 12:00 AM
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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Gravels for Garden Landscaping Nov 20,2023 12:00 AM
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The beauty of Scottish cobbles May 30,2022 12:00 AM
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Create the Perfect Rockery Stone Garden May 26,2022 12:00 AM
A well-constructed gravel driveway not only enhances the curb appeal of your property but also provides a durable and cost-effective solution for vehicular access. However, creating a gravel driveway requires careful planning and the selection of the right gravel type. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to gravel a driveway and help you choose the best gravel for the job.
Part 1: Preparing Your Driveway
- Assessment and Planning
Before you start, assess your driveway area and determine the purpose of your driveway. Is it primarily for vehicle access, or will it serves as a decorative pathway too? Measure the dimensions including the depth and plan the layout.
- Site Preparation
- Clear the area of vegetation, rocks, and debris.
- Check the slope and drainage. Proper grading is essential to ensure water doesn't pool on your driveway.
- If your driveway is on a slope, consider installing drainage features like channel drainage systems or soak aways to direct water away from the surface.
- Edging and Borders
Install edging or borders to contain the gravel and prevent it from spreading into other areas. Options include timber, stone, or metal edging.
Part 2: Choosing the Right Gravel
Selecting the appropriate gravel type is crucial for a durable and aesthetically pleasing driveway. Here are some common gravel options and their suitability for driveways:
- Characteristics: Angular, irregularly shaped stones available in various sizes.
- Pros: Provides a stable, long-lasting surface that resists movement. Effective for weed control.
- Cons: Some sizes can be less comfortable for walking always check the grading size.
- Ideal Use: Ideal for driveways and as a base material for other materials.
- Characteristics: Mixture of both angular and rounded gravel, typical size 20mm diameter and can often be found in a smaller size of 10mm
- Pros: Creates a comfortable, walkable surface. Suitable for various garden styles. Easy to work with and maintain.
- Cons: May move over time and require periodic raking.
- Ideal Use: Suitable for decorative driveways, pathways and borders.
- Recycled Asphalt
- Characteristics: Crushed and recycled asphalt material.
- Pros: Affordable and environmentally friendly. Compacts well to create a stable surface.
- Cons: Appearance may not be as appealing as traditional gravel options. May soften in extreme heat. Not always available due to improved recycling techniques used by the highways.
- Ideal Use: For budget-conscious homeowners or those looking for an eco-friendly option.
- Characteristics: crushed granite.
- Pros: Creates a firm, permeable surface that resists erosion. Easy to compact for a solid base.
- Cons: May need occasional replenishing. Can be dusty when dry.
- Ideal Use: Suitable for driveways, pathways, borders and patios.
- Characteristics: Smooth, rounded stones available in various sizes and colours.
- Pros: Adds a natural, calming aesthetic to the driveway. Low maintenance.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other gravel types.
- Ideal Use: Suitable for decorative driveways, pathways, borders and patio areas.
Part 3: Installing the Gravel Driveway
Once you've chosen the right gravel type, it's time to install your driveway. Here's a step-by-step process:
- Excavate the driveway area to a desired depth, depending on your gravel size.
- Compact the soil or sub-base to create a stable foundation.
- Add a layer of geotextile fabric to prevent weed growth and stabilize the base.
- Add Gravel Layers
- Begin with a layer of larger-sized gravel (base gravel) as a foundation, typically 10cm thick. Compact this layer thoroughly.
- Add a second layer of smaller-sized gravel (top gravel) on top, usually 5cm thick.
- Compact each layer ideally using a mechanical compactor to create a solid, level surface.
- Regular Maintenance
- Periodically replenish or re-compact the gravel to maintain a smooth surface.
- Address any drainage issues promptly to prevent erosion.
Part 4: Final Thoughts
Gravel driveways are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a practical, cost-effective, and visually appealing solution. By carefully selecting the right gravel type, proper site preparation, and meticulous installation, you can enjoy the benefits of a durable and attractive gravel driveway for years to come. Whether you opt for chippings, pea gravel, recycled asphalt, granite, or pebbles, your well-constructed gravel driveway will enhance the functionality and beauty of your property.
Here at Decorative Gardens we have a range of gravels and accessories that are ideal for creating a gravel driveway. If you need a hand with advice then please get in touch.
When it comes to garden landscaping, the choice of materials can make a significant difference in both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your outdoor space. Gravel is a versatile and popular option for garden paths, driveways, and decorative features. However, not all gravels are created equal, and selecting the right type for your project is crucial. In this extensive guide, we will explore the various types of gravels available and provide insights into choosing the best gravels for your garden landscaping needs.
Why Choose Gravel for Garden Landscaping?
Before delving into the specifics of gravel types, let's briefly discuss why gravel is a favoured material for garden landscaping:
- Aesthetics: Gravel can enhance the visual appeal of your garden. Its natural look complements a variety of garden styles, from traditional to contemporary.
- Durability: Gravel is a long-lasting material that can withstand heavy foot traffic and vehicular use. Properly installed, it can last for many years.
- Low Maintenance: Gravel requires minimal maintenance compared to other paving options. It doesn't crack, and weeds are easier to control compared to a solid surface.
- Water Drainage: Gravel allows rainwater to penetrate the soil, preventing water pooling and runoff. This can be beneficial for your plants and helps prevent erosion.
- Versatility: Gravel is versatile and can be used for various landscaping purposes, including paths, driveways, patios, and decorative features.
Types of Gravels for Garden Landscaping
Several types of gravel are available, each with unique characteristics. The choice of gravel largely depends on your landscaping goals, climate, and personal preferences. Here are some popular types of gravels for garden landscaping:
Characteristics:
- Small, Angular and rounded stones, 10-20mm inch in diameter.
- Smooth texture and natural colours, often tan, grey, or beige.
- Ideal for pathways, patios, and decorative areas.
- Provides excellent drainage.
Pros:
- Creates a comfortable, walkable surface.
- Suitable for various garden styles.
- Easy to work with and maintain.
Cons:
- May move over time and require periodic raking.
Characteristics:
- Angular, irregularly shaped stones.
- Available in various sizes, from fine gravel to larger stones.
- Excellent for driveways, pathways, and as a base for other materials.
Pros:
- Provides stable, long-lasting surfaces.
- Resistant to displacement.
- Effective for weed control.
Cons:
- May have a less natural appearance compared to rounded gravels.
- Some sizes can be less comfortable for walking.
Characteristics:
- Smooth, rounded stones.
- Available in various sizes and colours.
- Often used for decorative features, water features, and borders.
Pros:
- Adds a natural, calming aesthetic to the garden.
- Suitable for ponds and water gardens.
- Low maintenance.
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than other gravel types.
Characteristics:
- Creates a compacted, stable surface.
- Often used for pathways, patios, and as a base for other materials.
Pros:
- Creates a firm, permeable surface.
- Easy to compact for a solid base.
- Resists erosion.
Cons:
- May need occasional replenishing or compacting.
- Can be dusty when dry.
Characteristics:
- Flat, angular stones.
- Available in various colours, including grey, green, and purple.
- Used for decorative purposes, mulching, and pathways.
Pros:
- Unique, vibrant colours add visual interest.
- Resists compaction and erosion.
- Low maintenance.
Cons:
- May be less comfortable for walking compared to rounded gravels.
- Can be more expensive than other options.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Gravel
Selecting the best gravel for your garden landscaping project requires careful consideration of several factors:
- Purpose: Determine the primary use of the gravel – whether it's for a pathway, driveway, patio, or decorative feature. Each application may require a specific type of gravel.
- Climate: Consider your local climate. In areas with heavy rainfall, good drainage is crucial, so coarser gravel may be more suitable. In arid regions, finer gravel can help with dust control.
- Aesthetics: Choose gravel colours and textures that complement your garden's style and existing elements.
- Budget: Gravel costs vary, so establish a budget and select a type that aligns with your financial constraints.
- Maintenance: Assess how much time and effort you're willing to invest in maintenance. Some gravel requires more upkeep than others.
- Accessibility: Consider how easy it is to access and transport the gravel to your garden.
- Installation: Ensure proper installation methods, including proper edging and compaction, to ensure a long-lasting and stable surface.
Conclusion
Gravel is a versatile and attractive choice for garden landscaping. Whether you're looking to create a picturesque garden path, a functional driveway, or simply add some decorative flair to your outdoor space, there's a gravel type that suits your needs. By considering factors like purpose, climate, aesthetics, budget, maintenance, and installation, you can confidently choose the best gravel for your garden landscaping project. With the right choice and proper installation, you'll enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor space for years to come.
You can shop a wide range of gravels online here at Decorative Gardens from leading brands including Kelkay, Deco-Pak and Altico.
Obtained from a number of the finest suppliers, our Scottish cobbles are carefully selected from responsible sources to bring the wild beauty of a Highland coastline into any garden or outdoor space.
Perfect for adding a finishing touch to paths and borders, every Scottish pebble is unique, displaying a rich variety of natural, earthy tones that change depending on the weather, light conditions and where they’re placed. When combined in an area, the effect of Scottish pebbles is elegantly beautiful.
Scottish pebbles are wonderful for adding interest to wet areas in the garden where they will glisten to reveal a myriad of subtle marbleised patterns. Naturally rounded by the elements, Scottish cobbles have a gorgeously smooth finish, require very little maintenance and are a safe option for those with children or pets.
Where do Scottish cobbles come from?
We’ve all walked along a stretch of beach and marvelled at the unending colours, sizes and textures of the pebbles that line where the tide has washed them to. The relentless rolling waves erode the stone to produce a polished, rounded effect.
As Scottish pebbles come from some of the wildest parts of the UK - the Highlands and Islands of Scotland - the often rough sea conditions that have battered this most rugged and remote area, creates a particularly smooth stone from the constant tumbling effect. A lot of Scottish cobbles are actually sourced from former prehistoric beaches someway inland where they have lain for millions of years.
What makes Scottish cobbles so beautiful?
It’s almost as if every Scottish pebble has its own story to tell. A little like gazing into a slab of marble, each is unique with the veins of quartz that wriggle through the stone. Some Scottish pebbles have a multitude of hues and patterns while others are solid stones of just one colour.
When laid in an area, the effect is a mosaic of earthy tones with varying matt and glossy finishes. Scottish pebbles offer a classic beach palette of colours. When dry, the cobbles are typically a light grey with shades of whites, greens, browns and pinks. You might also note brick reds, peach shades and some gold. When wet, the effect of an area made up of Scottish pebbles is transformed.
Scottish cobbles and water
If you’ve been to a beach scattered with pebbles just as the tide has gone out, you’ll recognise the glistening effect as the light dances on each stone as they slowly dry.
That image is what makes Scottish garden pebbles so attractive when combined with water - either slightly submerged or bordering a water feature. The natural beauty of each pebble is magnified by water to bring out the individual features of each and every stone magnificently.
Stunning when used to line the borders of ponds or streams, Scottish pebbles also look fabulous at the base of a cascading water feature or a fountain as the movement of the water creates a shimmering effect on the stone. As Scottish pebbles come from areas where there is, or was once, water then the overall effect is particularly natural.
Mixing up sizes of Scottish cobbles
Scottish pebbles come in a range of sizes and can be combined with Scottish cobbles to add variety to spaces and to draw the eye through the garden or to a certain area. Alternating the size and texture in this way can change the perspective of an outdoor space to create depth and width.
Scottish cobbles are a beautifully practical option too
As well as creating serene outdoor spaces, using Scottish pebbles has a number of practical benefits too. There are no sharp edges like other types of aggregate meaning Scottish pebbles are smooth to walk on for paths and ideal for areas where young children play or four-legged friends frolic.
Using Scottish cobbles is also a natural way to inhibit weed growth and to improve drainage in areas of planting. Landscaping with pebbles is very on-trend in the world of gardens right now too. We’ve seen displays using Scottish pebbles at the Chelsea Flower Show and other RHS festivals that are held around the country to enhance everything from Japanese gardens to water gardens to stunning rockery displays.
However, if you've never created a rockery stone garden before, it may seem like a daunting task. But, with the following tips, creating the perfect rockery stone garden will be easier than you might have imagined.
Be inspired
First things first, before you start digging outside or shopping for rockery stones, it's important to think about what kind of rockery garden you want to create. Think about what kind of features it will have and what sort of style you want to emulate for your rockery garden. This could be an Alpine, Oriental or Mediterranean style, for instance.
If you are stuck for ideas, have a look through gardening magazines for inspiration, or visit properties that have rockery stone gardens of their own for ideas you can steal. Search for a supplier of rockery stones near me who can offer ideas to get your dream rockery garden on the way to reality.
Choosing the location
Have a think about where you want your rockery stone garden to be located. It's important to feel totally happy with the spot you choose, as once it has been laid down it will be a lot harder to remove.
Choose a site that will complement the type of plants you might want to include in your rockery garden. For example, if you're going to add Alpine plants these will need lots of natural light, so your rockery shouldn't be placed in a shady area.
However, you may wish to build the rockery garden in an 'awkward' part of your space that could be dark, damp and tricky to grow plants successfully, in which case, you may be happy for the rockery to just include stones and a water element, or maybe plants such as hardy mosses or lichens which can even thrive in hostile conditions.
Generally speaking, the type of flowers and plants you want to grow in your rockery garden will dictate where you place it, so understand the growing conditions of your chosen plants first before deciding on a spot.
While many people opt for Alpine plants when creating a rockery garden, it's also worth bearing in mind that, as long as the plants have the right amount of soil, nutrients and lights to meet their needs, you could grow all sorts of plants in rockery gardens, including bulbs and even herbs.
Adding water
A lot of people like to include a water element in a rockery garden, and, certainly, having water trickling or cascading down rocks looks beautiful and sounds tranquil, too. If you want a water feature to be included in your rockery garden, think about how this will work, as this could also be influenced by the location. For instance, if you choose a water feature that will be powered by a solar panel, your rockery garden should be placed somewhere that receives a lot of sunlight to enable the solar panel to provide enough power for the water feature to function.
Alternatively, if you already have a pond, you could add the rockery next to the pond to use the water from the pond as a feature for your rock garden.
In addition to these practical considerations, you should choose a site where you can enjoy looking at your rockery garden, so don't tuck it away into a corner of your plot if you want it to become a focal point of your space.
Size matters
Think about how big you want your rockery garden to be. If you've only got a compact space you might be restricted to a small rockery, but that doesn't mean to say that it won't be big on impact.
Measure out the space that you'll be devoting to your rockery garden, so you can get a better idea of the amount and type of plants or features you will include, as well, of course, how many rocks or stones will be needed.
Choosing rockery stones and rocks
One of the biggest considerations you'll need to make when creating a rockery garden is choosing the rockery stones or rocks. After all, this will be the main component of the feature, so it's crucial that you get this aspect right to create the desired impact.
You'll probably spend a long time at this stage because there is so much choice on offer! Rockery stones and rocks come in all different shapes, colours and sizes, as well as various material types such as granite, slate or boulders.
Size considerations
So, where do you start? First of all, think about what size of stone you want. Smaller stones work well for small rockery gardens and are easy to move around compared to larger stones. However, large rocks offer great visual impact. It's a good idea to have a mixture of both large and small stones to provide interesting contrast and texture.
When deciding how many rocks you'll need, it's always best to buy more than you think. A reputable rockery stone provider may be able to help you work out how many you'll potentially need.
Colour choices
It's especially important to make sure you choose the right colour of stone for your rockery. Stone colours can vary from light in shade to dark tones, with some also having various different hues. Bear in mind that rock colours can also look slightly different when exposed to sunlight or water, often enhancing their beautiful shades.
When choosing the colour of your rocks, think about what kind of plants you want to include in your rockery and how the planting colours will blend in with the shade of stone.
You might also wish to choose your rock colour to blend in with other hard landscaping features you have in your garden, such as patio stone, boundary materials and colours as well as any other structures or garden furniture you might have.
Sourcing rockery stones and rocks
If you want your rockery stone garden to look good for as long as possible, it makes sense to choose a reputable supplier. Search online for rockery stones for sale near me and choose a provider that has lots of high-quality options available. A specialist rockery stone supplier will also be able to provide you with any help and advice to find the right rocks and stones to match your needs.
If you want your rockery garden to look good all year round, for years to come, choose natural stones that weather well with age. You might end up paying a bit more for these compared to cheaper stones, but it will prove to be a good investment for your outside space.
When to build a rockery
Rockery stone gardens can be built at any time of year, although it's preferable to choose a time when the soil is damp and soft, as it will be easier to work with. Late winter or after heavy rainfall are good times to start your rockery garden project, although if you're adding plants to your rockery, spring is equally fitting as it will give plants time to grow into their positions.
Making the rockery garden
If you want your rockery garden to look its best, it's vital that you spend some time preparing the site before laying the rocks down. Obviously, the bigger the rock garden, the more effort and tools you might need to create it.
Mark out your chosen area and remove any plants or weeds so that the ground is clear. It's easier to build a rockery on a flat surface, but you can also build one on a slope if you wish - just make sure the stones are firmly in place and won't roll over!
Add a layer of rubble to the ground to improve drainage, and, to prevent any weed seeds left in the soil from germinating and colonising the rock garden, it's worth installing a weed proof membrane to the site.
Once you've got your ground prepared, the fun part begins - placing the rocks. Start by adding the biggest rocks first, and build them up into a peak. You can then add smaller rocks or stones to sit on the larger ones, thinking about the overall shape and structure you want to create, as well as taking into account where you want to place any plants and other elements, such as a water feature. If you want to create different microclimates for your plants, make sure to place the rocks in various different directions.
As you build up your rockery structure, continue to layer it with topsoil so that you have some pockets for your chosen plants.
Planting pockets facing south will be better suited to drought-tolerant plants that like a lot of sun, while mosses, small ferns, dwarf conifers and lichens are especially suited to rockery aspects facing north, as these don't require much light.
Once you've added any plants to your rockery, give them water and then place some horticultural grit over the soil to improve drainage.
Maintenance
A well-built rockery garden will need little maintenance, so it's the ideal structure for your landscape if you have limited time on your hands.
Occasional weeding and watering may be needed for some plants, and if some plants start to outgrow their positions, you may need to prune them or move them on to another part of the garden. If you choose high-quality stones and rocks for your rockery garden, these will pretty much look after themselves. They will continue to look good for a long time to come, with their appearance often improving as they weather with age.
If you're looking for a wide range of high-quality rockery stones for sale near me, get in touch with the rockery stone professionals at Decorative Gardens.
If you are looking to landscape your garden, then using our vast selection of pebbles here at Decorative Garden is a must. Scottish pebbles, in particular, add an incredibly organic and natural finish to your garden with their beautiful earth tones. In this blog post, we cover what pebbles are, why you should choose Scottish pebbles for your garden, and all the pebbles offered here at Decorative garden.
What are pebbles?
Pebbles are small rocks that can be used to decorate gardens, patios and flower beds. They come in various colours, depending on personal preference. Larger pebbles can also be purchased that require less washing maintenance.
Why choose Scottish garden pebbles?
Premium Scottish garden pebbles are some of the most diverse stones you can buy. You can find them in various beautiful shades of beige, pink, orange, black and white. They have a small surface area, which means they look amazing when arranged on driveways, patios, paths or even as a final touch to a beloved plant pot. The Scottish garden pebbles here at Decorative Garden are all fish-friendly, so are perfect to use in ponds and water features as well.
These pebbles also help to add a level of practicality to your garden and driveway. Use them to create a stylish and comfortable walkway that feels pleasant underfoot. Bear in mind these pebbles are naturally rounded and have the tendency to move about if packed in too densely.
You will never find easier maintenance than with these garden pebbles. Particularly our larger Scottish garden pebbles require very little upkeep and power washing to remain pristine. A top tip is to consider using a weed membrane before laying and assembling your pebbles. This will help to stop weeds appearing through that need to be tended to.
The natural shape of Scottish garden pebbles allows for excellent drainage. This is due to the larger gaps in between the stones. Rain and water can then drain away more efficiently than with other paving options. This makes them a perfect option for soils near water features or on potted plants.
Scottish garden pebble options for your garden
Here at Decorative Garden, we have an extensive range of Scottish garden pebbles for you to choose from. Each varies slightly and tailors to individual garden needs. Take a read through the types of Scottish garden pebbles below to find the perfect ones for your garden.
Premium Balmoral pebbles
The Premium Balmoral pebbles are perfect for decorating driveways, paths and water features. They look especially good when wet which makes them the ideal addition near ponds and water. The Premium Balmoral pebbles also blend well with plants, both as a topper and to help as a weed deterrent and moisture retention.Find below some practical qualities of Premium Balmoral pebbles:
• Size: 14-20mm. The sizes quoted are an approximate estimation. All decorative aggregates are quarried so sizes can vary.
• Shape: Generally these pebbles are a smooth, rounded shape.
• Colour: A variety of natural earth tones of Beige, Black, Orange, Pink, White.
• Dust: All quarried stones come with a certain amount of dust. This can be easily rectified by a gentle hosing down of the stones.
• Are they fish-friendly: Yes, the Premium Balmoral pebbles are safe for use in ponds and water features with fish.
Premium Scottish tweed pebbles
The Premium Scottish tweed pebbles are highly adaptable and add a touch of natural colour to any garden corner. These stones are also perfect for use on driveways, water features and paths. No garden is complete without the addition of Premium Scottish tweed pebbles.
Find below some practical qualities of Premium Scottish tweed pebbles:
• Size: 20-30mm. The sizes quoted are an approximate estimation. All decorative aggregates are quarried so sizes can vary.
• Shape: Generally these pebbles are a smooth, rounded shape.
• Colour: A variety of natural earth tones of Beige, Black, Orange, Pink, White.
• Dust: All quarried stones come with a certain amount of dust. This can be easily rectified by a gentle hosing down of the stones.
• Are they fish-friendly: Yes, the Premium Scottish tweed pebbles are safe for use in ponds and water features with fish.
Scottish pebbles 8-14mm
These Scottish pebbles are the smallest we stock here at Decorative garden. This makes them perfect for detailing. They are popularly used on garden paths, small water features and plant pots. We proudly source these pebbles from a small family business run from the north of Scotland.
Find below some practical qualities of Scottish pebbles:
• Size: We stock three sizes of Scottish pebbles (8-14mm, 14-20mm and 20-30mm). The sizes quoted are an approximate estimation. All decorative aggregates are quarried so sizes can vary.
• Shape: Generally these pebbles are a smooth, rounded shape.
• Colour: A variety of natural earth tones of Beige, Black, Orange, Pink, White.
• Dust: All quarried stones come with a certain amount of dust. This can be easily rectified by a gentle hosing down of the stones.
• Are they fish-friendly: Yes, the Scottish pebbles are safe for use in ponds and water features with fish.
Deco-Pak Scottish pebbles
The beautiful Deco-Pak Scottish pebbles are certain to enhance any area they are used. These premium stones are a great addition to garden borders and as sophisticated ground cover. Your garden will be the envy of many with these pebbles!
Find below some practical qualities of Deco-Pak Scottish pebbles:
• Size: 20-30mm. The sizes quoted are an approximate estimation. All decorative aggregates are quarried so sizes can vary.
• Shape: Generally these pebbles are a smooth, rounded shape.
• Colour: A variety of natural earth tones of Beige, Blue, Brown, Grey.
• Are they fish-friendly: Yes, the Deco-Pak Scottish pebbles are safe for use in ponds and water features with fish.
No garden is complete without Scottish Garden pebbles, so browse our website to pick up decorative stones for your garden today.
Caledonian pebbles
Our Caledonian pebbles are some of the most premium stones on the market. They help to add life and enhance any area they are used in. Caledonian pebbles look great when wet so are perfect for water features and marginal planting.
Find below some practical qualities of Caledonian pebbles:
• Size: 14-20mm. The sizes quoted are an approximate estimation. All decorative aggregates are quarried so sizes can vary.
• Shape: Generally these pebbles are a smooth, rounded shape.
• Colour: A variety of natural earth tones of Beige, Black, Orange, Pink, White.
• Dust: All quarried stones come with a certain amount of dust. This can be easily rectified by a gentle hosing down of the stones.
• Are they fish-friendly: Yes, the Caledonian pebbles are safe for use in ponds and water features with fish.
While some garden trends come and go (crazy paving anyone?), using pebbles to enhance your garden and outdoor areas is one that stands the test of time. Scottish garden pebbles are versatile, low maintenance, suitable for large and small spaces, and can be functional for surface areas as well as suitable for accents, borders, pots, and ponds.
But how to know which Scottish pebbles are right for your garden? It all depends on what overall look you're keen on achieving, as well as considering the function of the pebbles.
Pathways and Driveways
If you want to use Scottish garden pebbles to spruce up your paths and driveways, you're in luck! These pebbles are ideal for high-wear areas, such as spaces with high footfall or for cars and bikes. Pebbles are very hard-wearing and great for coping with wet and cold weather too. They come in a variety of natural colours so you can create smart, unified looks in your outdoor spaces with ease and at a cost-effective price.
Consider what size and shape you want for paths and drives. You may want something a little smaller to make walking and driving on the surfaces easier. As Scottish garden pebbles are naturally rounded, they do have a slight movement when walked on. Choosing something smaller will make walking on them safer and easier than a larger size, where the rounded nature and movement of the pebbles will be more pronounced the greater the size. Make sure you don't lay them too thick either, as this can make walking on them difficult and a potential hazard.
Borders and flower beds
Whether you've got huge sweeping flower beds, perfectly pruned rose borders, or a tucked-away space on the lawn for plants, adding garden pebbles can be the ideal finishing touch. Using pebbles in your borders and flowerbeds can help reduce weeds, aid with drainage (great for fussy plants), preserve moisture, and remove patches of unsightly dirt. Garden pebbles can also create neat edging for borders, reducing the need to strim or edge while maintaining a great look. An added bonus - if you have a dog that loves to dig and hide bones in your flower beds, putting a layer of pebbles down can deter them from digging!
Remember, if you're intending to lay gravel in flower beds and borders, make sure your plants are well established. Young plants or seedlings can struggle with pebbles. If you're laying pebbles around the base of well-established plants, such as rose bushes or trees, consider laying a weed membrane to further reduce those pesky weeds from appearing. Just make sure water can still penetrate!
Ponds and water features
A pond or water feature can add so much to even small gardens and outdoor spaces. Calming water, beautiful plant life, and ideal for attracting diverse wildlife, having a pond in the garden is making a comeback in a big way. There is a real art to preparing, digging, and maintaining a pond or water feature, and choosing the right garden pebbles is a key part of that.
All of our Scottish garden pebbles are completely safe to use in ponds and are fish-friendly as well. Choose from larger, more rounded pebbles for the depths and base of your pond, with smaller pebbles to line the 'shore' to create a graduated and natural look. The variation of sizes can also be great if you're keen to encourage frogs and tadpoles, or if you're intending to keep fish as they have plenty of places to hide.
Think about how you want to use and maintain your pond or water feature. If it's a sensory pond where you and your family will be keen to dip your toes, you might want a smaller pebble throughout for comfort reasons. If you want to create a more Alpine or Oriental style feature of your pond, larger rounded pebbles can create a striking impact and allow room for planting.
Colour and Texture
Garden pebbles allow you to add colour and texture to areas of your outside space you might not have considered. If you're looking to create a specific style of garden, such as Alpine, Cottage, or Mediterranean, choosing Scottish garden pebbles can be the perfect way to tie the spaces in the garden together. With their range of natural earthy tones, from rich browns, bright tans and soft mink-grey, these pebbles never look out of place.
Why not use these to add colour and texture to flower beds, paths, raised beds and borders, and even to potted plants. Or use as a base layer for a rockery to complement the larger boulders, or to add a natural lift to flagstone paths when used to help bed in the stones. For larger gardens and pathways, using a single type of garden pebble can create a sense of unity. Or you can buck the trend and vary the size and colour used for a garden that's uniquely your own!
Review our range of Scottish garden pebbles today to learn more about which selection is the right choice for you.
If you’ve ever marvelled at the beauty of the Scottish coastline or delighted in a hike along one of Scotland’s many lochs and rivers, you’ll know that Scotland features a stunning array of colourful pebbles and cobbles. Rounded by time, they provide the ideal relaxing backdrop to your flowerbeds, a harmonious pond or as a decorative border sectioning off different areas of your garden. They help create a tranquil atmosphere that will bring you right back to holidays by the British coast and finish off any garden design with a wow factor.
Delivered to your door
You may think that getting Scottish cobbles and pebbles delivered is a costly and lengthy endeavour or that you’ll need to contend with a complicated van hire to pick them up locally. Fear not, as we offer fast 48hr delivery. Best of all we'll deliver your order curb-side on a handy pallet.
Using Palletways, we offer reliable, fast delivery via tail-lift vehicles. In other words, we will bring your pallet order of pebbles or cobbles directly to your kerbside. If agreed beforehand and provided there are no obstacles such as trees or fencing, we can even bring your pallet to your back garden for ultimate ease and comfort.
Simply select the date you’d like to have your order delivered by upon checkout and we will do our best to accommodate you. You can even select to have your order delivered in the morning or evening for an extra fee, giving you full control over when you will receive your pebbles or cobbles.
How will my order be delivered?
We use large heavy goods vehicles via Palletways to ensure your order of Scottish pebbles or cobbles – big or small – can be accommodated. As such, we require sufficient access to your property with no obstructions in the form of trees, fencing or otherwise to deliver your order. Please also make sure there is no loose ground outside your property that could hinder the delivery or cause issues for our truck.
If we cannot gain access to your property to make the delivery, you should be aware that additional costs may be incurred, so please do make sure you let us know well in advance if there are any potential access problems. We use large delivery vehicles, followed by a tail lift to offload your pebbles or cobbles, and then manoeuvre a smaller pallet truck into position to bring your products to your kerbside, as agreed.
What are the advantages of kerb-side delivery?
The first thing that springs to mind is, of course, the lack of fuss. There’s no need for you to acquire a large (and often pricy) rental vehicle, or dirty your car on the multiple journeys that would be required for such a heavy order. You’ll save both money and time, and the convenience of our quick and budget-friendly delivery is unparalleled.
You also have the option of ordering any amount of Scottish garden pebbles or cobbles or combine several different styles regardless of weight. This means you’ll be able to finish your perfect garden project with just one well-planned order should you choose to do so.
Choosing to have beautiful Scottish garden pebbles or cobbles delivered to your door step is an excellent, convenient way of making your garden even better. With our selection of premium pebbles and cobbles, you’ll invite tranquil style and harmony into your back yard. Whether you’re choosing to complete a flowerbed, finish off a lovely pond with the setting of Scottish lochs and rivers, or add a decorative border, we have the right stones for you.
Using kerb-side, fast delivery to your doorstep could not be easier, and together with Palletways we’ll be happy to get your Scottish garden pebbles or cobbles to you in no time at all. For additional delivery information, you’ll find things to look out for along with easy to follow graphics on our website. We want to ensure that your order gets to you flawlessly and with as little fuss as possible.
Simply select your perfect combination from our website or use our clever garden gravel calculator to find out exactly how much you will need to complete your unique project. If you need help, you can always <a href=“https://www.decorativegardens.co.uk/contact/”>email or phone us</a> for assistance and we’ll be happy to do what we can to make your project a reality. Our Scottish pebbles and cobbles can be delivered to your doorstep in just a few clicks.
What are rockery stones?
Rockery stones are natural stones used as landscaping materials. Examples include limestone, granite, and gritstone. They offer a practical yet aesthetic choice of material that complements the vegetation in your garden. They can also be used alongside gravel and other types of stone for an entirely rocky look.
How can they produce beautiful landscapes?
To bring contrast to a flower garden
You can combine several brightly coloured flowers with dark coloured rocks for a stunning landscape. The stones serve as partitions for different garden sections, with an overall colour pattern display for the flowers. Depending on your choice, the rocks could also add a splash of colour or serve as a contrasting background to highlight the flowers.
As footpaths in the landscape
This idea also works for benches and tables. The combination of larger rockeries and smaller gravel makes for a beautiful display while also being functional. Together, they create a beautiful footpath in your garden. The larger rockeries serve as stepping stones with the gravel as fillers for safe movement to and around the garden sitting areas. It's also how you get people to avoid stepping on the manicured lawns.
To highlight your landscape at night
Lush green lawns look amazing during the day but remain bland when it gets dark. You can bring life into your garden through rockeries. Big bright rocks and vegetation blend well to create amazing shapes and beautiful silhouettes when outdoor lighting strikes them at the right angles. The illuminated rocks also add to the beauty of shrubs and succulents, further enhancing your landscape's appeal
As a solution to uneven landscapes
If your landscape is sloping or uneven, you can use rockeries to even it out. Instead of using cemented stairs or abandoning the space, you can use rockeries to create a safe walk path. These rocks can mark the different levels of the area and serve as natural stairs to move from the lower sections to the next. By using wide rocks, you'll manage to tame the space by separating and connecting each level.
To act as anchors for water and plants
Rockeries are great for areas that get little rainfall. These rocks help retain water for the vegetation through their size and weight. Additionally, they serve as anchors for growing vegetation. You can introduce them to your garden to add to the space's beauty and enable you to sustain your flowers and other foliage. Furthermore, a combination of rocks and gravel helps prevent soil erosion through wind or rainfall.
As walls and other boundaries
Instead of having a concrete wall, how about one made with beautiful rocks? You can add to the looks of your garden by using rockeries for the garden walls. Rockeries allow vegetation to grow through their gaps, further adding to the beauty of your garden. You can also change their arrangement in the future to create a different-looking space, depending on your decorating inspirations. Rockeries can also be used on pathways in and out of the garden as half-walls that allow visibility for the stunning area but confine human traffic where you want it.
To create stunning water features
Rockeries make for interesting features in a waterfall, pond, and other water features on a landscape. They add a splash of colour where vegetation would otherwise not survive, such as under rushing water. Rockeries also offer surfaces for algae and moss to thrive. Lastly, rocks present an excellent surface for water to fall or flow on, producing a soothing gushing sound that relaxes your senses when you spend time in the garden.
As a substitute for vegetation
In places where vegetation does not grow well, you can have an entirely rocky landscape. A careful and tasteful selection of rockeries, combined with gravel and excellent outdoor lighting, could produce a stunning landscape. An important benefit of this option is its minimal maintenance needs.
To create a Zen garden
You can transform a section of your lawn or the entire lawn into a Zen garden. This unique approach breaks away from the standard inclusion of a green patch in every landscape. A Zen garden combines rockeries of different sizes, gravel, and water features to create the perfect backdrop for meditation and other spiritual exercises. You can arrange the garden to have trees as the background or a rockery wall.
Conclusion
Rockeries enhance and differentiate the presentation of your landscape instead of the conventional setups. You can apply one of these ideas by searching for "rockery stones near me" or "rockery stones for sale near me," then visiting our site. We have good choices to meet all your landscaping needs.
Eye-catching
Scottish pebbles are in a different league compared to bog-standard pebbles. They have been carefully sourced and are available in a wide range of amazing colours, so will look that little bit more special compared to any other pebbles you might find.
Wherever you place Scottish pebbles in your garden, they'll quickly become an eye-catching focal point that will be admired by any visitor to your space.
Natural
If you want to enhance your landscape using natural products, pebbles are a good option. However, not all pebbles look the same, and some can almost look artificial - perhaps too perfectly shaped or too white in colour. This can spoil the desired natural, organic feel you might be hoping to emulate.
The good news is that Scottish garden pebbles are completely natural products, and are naturally rounded in shape, making them the ideal choice if you want your landscape to look just as nature intended.
Long lasting
Sometimes when you add decorative features to a landscape, they look good initially, but, over time, lose their aesthetic appeal. This isn't the case with Scottish garden pebbles, you'll be pleased to discover. In fact, these low maintenance cobbles actually look even better over time as they weather with age. This makes them a cost-effective option for enhancing your landscape for a long time to come.
Add contrast and texture
The beautiful assortment of shades of the pebbles brings colour to a garden, but when the pebbles are placed next to a lush green plant or shrub or bright flowers, it can provide an interesting contrast. Putting the pebbles around a pot can really bring a plant to life visually, rather than just leaving it exposed with bare soil.
The wonderfully smooth appearance of Scottish garden pebbles also means that when the pebbles are combined with other materials in a garden they can provide beautiful textural appeal. The natural elements of planting and the stone combine well, wherever they are placed.
Suitable for all garden styles
Whatever style of garden you have, or are hoping to create, the addition of Scottish pebbles will help to enhance all types of garden themes or styles, making them truly versatile.
Contemporary gardens
Gardens that are contemporary in style are often low maintenance affairs, featuring lots of hard landscaping, especially stone. Scottish pebbles work really well in contemporary gardens because of their low maintenance attributes. Placing the stones over borders can keep any weeds in check, and can keep moisture locked into the ground, so that plants won't need to be watered as frequently.
Cottage gardens
Another popular style of garden that many people aspire to have is a cottage garden theme. This tends to include lots of tall plants, such as lupins or foxgloves interspersed with roses and, often, vegetables. Scottish garden pebbles work really well in a cottage garden style as they can be used effectively to line narrow, meandering pathways billowing over with flowers.
Alpine gardens
A lot of people like to include an alpine garden in part of their landscape, and this typically involves building a rockery, and adding plants that thrive in high altitude conditions, such as saxifrages, mosses, lichens and sedums. Some of the stone materials used to make rockeries can look crude or hard, so if you want to create an alpine garden with a softer feel, using Scottish pebbles will achieve the desired effect.
Oriental gardens
In recent years many people have been inspired by Oriental gardens they may have visited and want to carry on the same theme for their own outside space. Creating an Oriental style of garden primarily involves adding some kind of water element, such as a water feature or fountain as well as decorative rocks and a rock garden.
This is where Scottish garden pebbles will really come into their own, as they can be used to great effect around any kind of water feature, with the moisture-enhancing the colours and textures of the cobbles. The stones will also be instrumental in creating a rock garden or simply in a display as a decorative feature.
Wildlife garden
As more people take an interest in attracting wildlife to their garden, this style of garden involves planting flowers to attract pollinators and creating habitats for visiting creatures. One of the key features of a wildlife garden is adding a pond or some kind of water feature, to attract frogs, insects and provide a place for birds and other mammals to take a drink.
Adding Scottish garden pebbles to a pond or a water feature can help to soften the edges of the structure, but it can also greatly enhance its appearance. When the cobbles are wet, they create a beautiful glistening effect that really catches the eye. You could also create a beach area at one end of the pond using the cobbles to enable creatures to safely enter and exit the pond, or perch on to stop for a drink. As a natural product, the cobbles are safe for exposure to any creatures, including any fish you might have in a pond.
Workspaces
Scottish garden pebbles can also be used to enhance the outside area of businesses, to help create a positive impression and a welcoming environment for customers, clients and colleagues. Pebbles can be used to line pathways or borders, as well as added to any plant pots placed outside workplace buildings, to keep them looking in good condition and to reduce weeding and other outside gardening maintenance tasks.
With a wide range of Scottish garden pebbles to choose from, take a look at the options available to enhance your landscape today.
Rockery stones from Decorative Gardens come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, and offer you the perfect way to upgrade your outdoor space for summer. From creamy Cotswold Stone to Deep Plum Slate Rockery, we have all the materials you need to bring striking exotic edge or appealing country house charm into your garden. Whether you’ve got plans for a large-scale design or want to give a small space a distinctive twist, we’ve got plenty of creative rockery stone ideas to enhance your garden this year.
What are rockery stones?
Rockery stones are low maintenance decorative aggregates that offer an easy and affordable way to add visual interest, texture, depth and diversity to your garden. At Decorative Gardens, our high quality rockery stones are incredibly versatile, allowing you to create subtropical designs, alpine spaces, wildflower nooks and perennial gardens. They enable you to foster the right environment for both sun-loving and shade-tolerant plants. Our rockery stones are also ideal for upping the curb appeal of your driveway or for creating beautiful borders between flower beds and lawns. In addition to giving your garden that luxury landscaped look, our rockery stones effectively absorb light and heat, so your plants stay cool and protected.
5 stunning ways to enhance your garden with rockery stones
Looking for exciting ways to enhance your garden? Want to create a layered look for visual interest? Fancy tropical vegetation, colourful perennials and sizzling succulents? With our rockery stones it's easy to create the kind of conditions that mimic natural habitats where everything from intriguing succulents to vivid aubretia flourish. Discover the latest in outdoor inspiration with our 5 stunning ways to enhance your garden with rockery stones.
1. The new mood is all about the herbs
In the past two years, as we have spent more time at home, there has been a trend towards growing gardens that are not only beautiful but also edible. Designing a herb rock garden is a popular choice. The result is a beautiful garden that includes all the benefits of fragrant herbs, many of which you can use as culinary spices in the kitchen as well. With our collection of rockery stones you can build pockets of space where herbs will thrive. Wondering which herbs to use? Dwarf varieties are the best options and we love rosemary, creeping thyme, sage, chamomile, lavender, parsley and sweet violet.
Our granite and slate rockery stones are ideal for creating herb rock gardens. These stones have excellent heat enhancing properties which will help bring out all the aromatic flavours of the herbs you plant. A herb rock garden is a low maintenance way of harvesting a fresh supply of ingredients for your kitchen and an excellent way of reducing your carbon footprint.
2. Create an earthy palette with a desert-style rock garden
A desert-inspired rock garden will look gorgeous in any outdoor space that gets plenty of direct sunlight. Imagine the sun-bleached tones of Palm Springs, the prickly beauty of cacti found in Arizona and the sword-like spikes of the yucca shrubs you see in the Mojave Desert. With a desert-inspired rock garden, you'll be hopping on the xeriscaping trend, a landscape design technique that doesn't require grass and needs little to no watering. This eco-friendly style of gardening is perfect for those who are keen to conserve water and reduce their use of fertiliser.
At Decorative Gardens, we have a fantastic selection of rockery stones that will look beautiful incorporated into a desert-style rockery. Great options include our large boulders, glistening granite, Coral Twist and Mist Rockery and Altico Dove Grey Rockery. And if you're looking for that perfect sandy desert shade, Cotswold Rockery is an excellent choice. Select tough and hardy drought-tolerant plants such as cacti, aloe vera and ghost plant succulents for your desert-inspired rock garden. Plump for ornamental grasses such as blue fescue grass and the evergreen perennial of dragon’s blood. You can add a bright splash of colour with rainbow lewisia or go soft and muted with silver carpet lamb's ear.
3. This is where the wildflowers grow
Do you dream of creating a fairytale wildflower rock garden? Our rockery stones come in various sizes and colours, all perfect for creating enchanting forest vibes and rockeries jam-packed with county house charm. Pollen-rich wildflower rock gardens are an increasingly popular choice, as they not only bring in pops of colour, but also encourage bees and butterflies to visit. When it comes to adding texture and colour to a wildflower rock garden, our Forest Green Granite Rockery and Plum Slate Rockery are great options. Wondering what to plant? Wild basil, harebell, cheddar pink and wild marjoram are all excellent choices.4. Rockery stones for fans of modern minimalism
Love the idea of bringing rockery stones into your garden design but not so keen on the look of a traditional rockery? There are still plenty of things you can do with thoughtful placement of rockery stones. Our extra large Arctic White Boulders are the ultimate decorative landscaping stone. For modern minimalism, use them in trios along garden paths or to create borders between flower beds and grass. Select large boulders for a show stopping feature attraction on shingle lawns or get creative and design a stylish Japanese garden with a solitary smooth white boulder surrounded by smaller pebbles and white sand.
Looking for stately presence that will create visual impact? Our supersized Welsh Slate rockery makes for a stunning standalone piece. Want to add colour and create a certain mood? Even if you’re not building a rock garden, our rockery stones can be used as stunning decorative pieces. Reach for our large Cotswold Rockery to bring warm tones into the garden or opt for Rustic Sage for those soul-soothing silvery green cool tones.
>5. Use rockery stones to build bold and beautiful borders
Want to give the space between your flower beds and lawn an organic look? Rockery stones are the perfect solution for creative edging. If you want a stunning border to enhance your garden, slate and granite stones are fantastic options because they are resistant to weeds and heavy enough not to move. No matter how big or how small your choice of stones, they'll keep gravel, mulch, and plants where they should be. Equally, our decorative aggregates can be used to jazz up driveways in creative ways. Strategically placing larger boulders along the driveway will add visual interest and curb appeal. Go bright and white for a fresh and modern aesthetic or opt for the more rustic and textured Cotswold Rockery for those irresistible creamy countryside feels.Rockery stones are an excellent way of adding texture, depth, and dimension to your outdoor space. They can be wild and wonderful, peaceful and pretty or modern and minimalist. At Decorative Gardens, we have a whole spectrum of colours and sizes available. Whether you're looking for the golden hues of Cotswold Stone or the viridescent shades of Forest Green Granite, we have you covered. With our selection of small, large and supersized natural stones you can create layered gardens, rock walls, waterfalls, borders and striking standalone features in your outdoor space. Combine our rockery stones with winter foliage, summer flowers, evergreens, succulents and herbs and create a garden that blooms all year round.