Types of Landscaping Rocks & Their Uses

Rocks and gravel are common supplies in landscaping and when designing new landscape projects. As a staple material in the practice, landscaping rocks come in a variety of colors, sizes, and types to best complement your ideal landscaping visions. Each type provides benefits that may fit your vision compared to other types, as well, making for a fully customizable experience.

1. Crushed Stone: Crushed stone is one of the more popular options that most looking to refresh their landscaping choose because they are an ideal replacement for mulch. Similar to mulch, crushed stone allows space for water to seep into the soil, but the stone also provides protection for trees and other plants, too. Crushed stone retains heat, so it's best used around drought-resistant plants.
   
   
2. River Rock: River rocks are exactly what their name describes - rocks that have been naturally rounded out in a river and then removed and transported for landscaping. River rocks come in many sizes, ranging from small gravel pieces to significantly larger boulders. They come in a variety of colors and offer a smooth surface to walk across. River rock is ideal for creating landscaping solutions for pooling water.
   
   
3. Pea Gravel: As the name suggests, pea gravel is small pea-sized rock that is affordable and provides a great multi-color option for walkways and playgrounds. It can also be used to help with drainage in flowerbeds and gardens.
   
   
4. Flagstone: If you're interested in adding new pathways, flagstone is one of the better options suited for the job due to their natural flatness. Flagstone is durable and comes in a variety of colors that are beautiful when mixed together, or arranged in patterns of your choice. This option is most commonly sold by the pallet, which can be heftier investment at first.
   
   
5. Field Stone: When farmers remove rocks from fields while plowing, these rocks are repurposed in landscaping - hence the name 'fieldstone'. They are smaller than boulders, but larger than most other landscaping rock options, making them ideal for accent pieces, as well as outdoor seating or stepping stones.
   
   
6. Boulders: Boulders often need to be delivered to your property and cost a hefty investment fee, depending on the total weight, but they make great retaining walls, separators for gardens, outdoor seating, or statement pieces in your overall landscaping design.