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The Role of Gravel in Landscaping: Design Tips and Inspirations


A gravel bed adorned with vibrant pink flowers and lush green plants, creating a serene natural landscape.

When you think of landscaping, do you think of gravel? More and more people do. In fact, the demand for landscaping rock and gravel has been rising since 2023, and it’s expected to continue to do so until 2031.1 This article explores the types of gravel being used in landscaping and offers tips and suggestions on where and how to use it.  


Popular Landscaping Gravel

River rock, crushed gravel, pea gravel, and decomposed granite are the most common types of gravel currently used in landscaping. They can be purchased at a local gravel mart or landscape supply centre. They are used in dry creeks and drainage areas, decorative borders, driveways and pathways, and, of course, base layers for other hardscaping.


Gravel Type

Appearance

Common Uses

Benefits

River Rock

Smooth, rounded stones (1-5 inches in size)

Dry creek beds, drainage areas, and decorative borders

Natural appearance, low maintenance, good for water features

Crushed Gravel/Stone

Angular, rough-textured stones (various sizes available)

Driveways, pathways, and as a base layer for other hardscaping

Compacts well, provides good drainage, affordable

Pea Gravel

Small, smooth, rounded stones (1/4 inch to 1/8 inch in size)

Pathways, patios, driveways, and as a decorative mulch

Comfortable to walk on, drains well, available in various colours

Decomposed Granite

Fine-textured, compactable material

Pathways, rustic patios, and xeriscape gardens

Natural look, permeable, available in various colours


How to Use Gravel in Landscaping

Successful and beautiful gravel landscaping begins like any other landscaping project: prepare the area by clearing the site, removing weeds, and levelling the ground. You will also need common landscape supplies like edging to contain the gravel and prevent spreading and weed barrier fabric to prevent weed growth and keep the gravel from sinking into the soil.


An important aspect of “gravelscaping” is choosing the right type and depth of stone for its function. Driveways may require a depth of 10 to 15 cm of gravel while half of that is sufficient for pathways and patio areas.


While gravel is a natural, non-growing outdoor element, it still requires maintenance, though little. Occasional raking and topping up will keep your gravel looking fresh and inviting. Gravel mixes well with pavers, wood, larger rocks, and plants. Play with and combine materials together for a unique and organic feel throughout your property. Add strategic lighting to enhance your choice of textures, materials, and plants during the evening and night. 


Xeriscape Gardens

A practical and ever more popular choice for properties is a xeriscape garden, which combines mulch, gravel, and drought-tolerant plants such as purple coneflower, lavender, and thyme. They look great and can reduce water usage by 50% compared to traditional landscaping. 


Find Your Gravel & Landscape Supplies 

Whatever your landscaping plans or gravel needs, if you’re on Vancouver Island, contact D.B.L. Disposal Services. Our gravel mart in Nanaimo has a range of products including the most common decorative gravels such as pea gravel, river rock, crushed stone, and decomposed granite. We can also assess your needs and provide you with personalized recommendations if required. Call or visit us today. 

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