How To Landscape With Stone Mulch

Wood mulches require replenishment each year.

Stone mulch is a long-lasting permeable landscaping application. The New Mexico Office of the State Engineer lists the benefits of stone mulch as less frequent replenishing, increased water retention in the soil, less susceptible to being blown in high winds, and availability in a number of decorative varieties. You will save money by avoiding the yearly mulching cycles and watering less when you use stone mulch for landscaping.

Things You'll Need

• Spray paint
• Landscape fabric
• Landscape fabric stakes
• Stone mulch
• Heavy-duty rake

Instructions

Preparation

1. Mark the area to be mulched with spray paint to determine the temporary border. Evaluate and adjust lines as needed to get the correct landscaping effect.

2. Spray any weeds or grass with an herbicide. Create a smooth area by clearing any large stumps or debris.

3. Place the landscape fabric across the area to be mulched. Overlap the edges 3 inches and place plastic stakes at the end of each length of landscape fabric.

Installation

1. Buy the stone mulch. Choose a color and size that complements the surrounding landscape. Buy enough to cover the entire area at least 2 inches deep.

2. Transport the stone mulch to your garden. Stone is the heaviest of all mulches so plan ahead to have someone help you move the bags from your car to your garden. Inquire about the cost of delivery if you are unable to move the stone mulch on your own.

3. Spread the stone mulch evenly throughout the bed. Level off high and low areas using a rake to achieve even distribution.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the methods in the steps to make a stone walkway.

• Go to a few garden centers to see a variety of stone colors and textures to find one that best matches your landscaping.

• Stone mulch can reflect heat, creating a heated micro-climate that may dry out plants that are planted in the garden bed, cautions the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer.

References

• New Mexico Office of the State Engineer: Chapter 1: The Fundamentals of Waterwise Landscaping