How to Add Garden Rocks
Just as a house needs a strong foundation, a garden needs a little structure to make a strong statement. One great way to show off your garden is by incorporating rocks into your design. This helpful article will get you started! Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Garden
- Rocks
- Gravel
- Shovel
- Strong friends
- Bobcat (optional)
- Paper
- Pencil
- Measuring tape
- Tarp
Instructions
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Plan your design
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1
Sketch out a rough estimate of your garden. Measure dimensions as necessary. Many people want to skip this step, but remember, it's easier to erase some graphite than move heavy rocks!
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2
Consider what you want the rocks to do. Some people purposely place a scooped out rock near a sprinkler head for an informal birdbath. Other people get large, low rocks for garden party seating.
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3
Evaluate if you need the rocks to hold back soil. If so, check into the steps for building a retaining wall. Retaining walls are a very doable project, but require a few extra steps.
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4
Sketch where you would place the rocks. Then imagine how your design would look from another angle entirely. For example, your plan might look great from the patio - but what about from your dining room windows? if you have trouble visualizing your ideas on paper, take some hose or other items from your garage that would approximate the rocks. Place these in the garden and see how your ideas work in your yard.
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5
Locate some rocks. Obviously found rocks are cheapest, and the bigger the rock, the greater the cost. If you are transporting the rocks yourself, be careful not to overload your vehicle. If the rocks are big, renting a Bobcat is well worthwhile. The last thing you want is a permanent back injury to keep you from gardening.
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6
Bring the rocks to your yard, and place them on a tarp near their new homes.
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7
Prepare the ground for the rocks. Clear away any plants, and dig out soil as necessary. Put a layer of gravel or sand where the rock will sit.
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8
Move the rock into the proper place. Adjust as necessary. With the help of a friend, ease out the tap. Water your rock into place.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Adding some climbing groundcovers or moss to the rocks can be really lovely
Avoid injury at all costs. Protect your back and wear steel toed boots. Get help with physical labor - don't be a hero.
