10 Ways to landscape with River Rock
What is river rock?
Before we get into how to use river rock in your Oregon landscape, let’s discuss where river rock comes from. River rock are natural stones that have been tumbled by ongoing river water. The result is beautiful stones that have been rounded and smoothed.
Aside from that they look great, there are other reasons why river rock is a great addition to your Portland metro landscape.
Here are some of the benefits of using river rock in your yard:
- It comes in a large variety of sizes – River rock is available in large range all the way from tiny pea gravel size, different size rounds, to large boulders.
- It’s durable – River rock can stand up to the rough treatment from foot traffic.
- Can improve drainage – Drainage is something that is especially important with the amount of rain we get in the Portland metro area. Water can move freely through a rock-covered pathway or dry river bed.
- It doesn’t attract pests – Mulches can be a haven for pests. Rock is much less attractive to destructive pests, such as termites.
- Save on your water bill – Since rock doesn’t need to be watered.
- Easy to maintain – You won’t need to mow, water, or fertilize your river rock bed.
1. Make a pathway
Few things can make a garden more inviting than a path. It can literally be an invitation to go explore an archway, roses, or any feature. It also helps keep our feet dry, and provides an easy transition from one garden space to another.
Using river rock for your pathway can have some added benefits as they are permeable, they naturally deter weeds, and they are an eco-friendly choice for your garden.
2. Create a dry river bed
A dry river bed is an attractive landscape feature that needs very little maintenance. It also doubles as an effective drainage solution. Utilizing a slope, or low spot, in your yard where water typically collects can help naturally correct the problem while enhancing the appearance of your yard. It’s best to have the dry river bed end at a natural settling area where any water can pool and soak into the soil.
The best part is that you get to decide the path it takes, and the type of stones used! You can also add in some plants along the edges after the river bed is complete to finish off the look.
3. Create a zen garden
With how fast and hectic life can get, a Zen garden can be a great way to calm down and find some inner peace. In a Zen garden, larger rocks may represent power or mountains, while smaller pea gravel may represent something softer like water. Even if your yard lacks space, remember a small zen garden can bring you just as much peace and calming as a large one.
4. control erosion
While all the great Pacific NW rain keeps things green and lush, it can also present a major disadvantage: water erosion, which can result in extensive (not to mention expensive) soil damage.
River Rock, in addition to enhancing the aesthetic of your landscape, can help reduce erosion.
When choosing river rock to help control erosion there are some key things to remember:
- Choose the right shape – Angular rocks are going to stay in place better and have the benefit of locking together better than rounded stones.
- Size matters – Larger stones are going to have more staying power, and are less likely to be displaced by fast-moving water.
- Start at the Bottom – If the location is sloped, you’ll want to start at the bottom and work your way to the top. This will help anchor the stones, lessening the likelihood of the stone migrating downhill over time.
- Go Deep – The rocks will need to be inserted partially into the ground, to help keep them in place.
5. Create stepping stones
Similarly to a pathway, stepping stones can be used to easily lead guests to certain areas of your yard. They can be installed in a variety of settings and can help connect different areas of your yard. They can also allow you to keep your feet dry while enjoying your garden on those wet Oregon days.
6. fire pit area
For safety reasons, fire pit areas require a non-flammable material around the fire pit. River rock not only fits this description, but is beautiful and durable. With proper preparation, you can have a great area for hanging out with friends and roasting marshmallows for years to come.
7. add to your moon garden
There’s just something magical about the quiet reflected moonlight from white or pale flowers. Add in some white river rock accents for some extra reflection. Or maybe even a white river rock path leading to your moon garden.
8. CREATE A river rock BORDER
Garden edging can add lots of style and practical benefits to your landscape. River stones can add a relaxed, more organic feel than some other landscape border options.
You can choose colors of stone that complement your patio for a perfect patio border.
9. build a stone sculpture
Rock sculptures seem to defy gravity while adding visual interest to your yard. Many people find that rock sculptures helps remind them to find balance in their own personal lives. You could build one as a permanent feature to your garden or just use stacking stones to relax, meditate, and relieve the stress of everyday life.
10. anywhere you would use gravel
You could use river rock just about anywhere you would use gravel for a softer, more organic feel.
If you’re looking to add some river rock to your Portland metro yard, we’d love to help! With free estimates, our pros are ready to help with your project from Hillsboro or Beaverton to Gresham or Tualatin and beyond.
