DIY Swimming Pools Artificial Rock

Hypertufa

• Hypertufa was first created in the 19th century to replace Tufa, a rare volcanic stone that was popular in landscaping. Hypertufa is created by mixing concrete with sand, peat moss and volcanic aggregate. The resulting mixture has a mud-pie like consistency and can be pressed into forms for casting, applied onto supports or free sculpted. Additionally, once the mixture cures, it is easy to carve and impervious to freezing.

Plastic Molds

• Some concrete companies have made plastic molds so that you can quickly make concrete that resembles paving stones. Once unmolded, these rocks interlock for a tightly-fitting patio or pathway. Concrete can be quickly mixed and pressed into the molds. The concrete is left in the molds for the curing process. Once the concrete has dried and cured, the rocks can be unmolded and then placed close together for a patio. To create a unique pathway, set the rocks with more space between them, and plant scented ground covers, such as false chamomile or creeping golden thyme in the cracks.

Aging Rocks

• When you look at the surface of a rock, nothing screams age like moss growing in the cracks and crannies. And while it can take some time for moss to naturally grow on stones, you can speed this process along with an application of a home recipe. Begin with some moss that you have gathered yourself. Try to remove any dirt from the moss. You will mix this in a ratio of 1 part moss to 4 parts liquid food with the rest of your recipe. You can use many different types of liquid for food. Some examples include a can of beer and 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar, 1 cup buttermilk or 1 cup yogurt. Basically, if moss can digest it, then it is a good food. You can give a boost to this by adding honey and vinegar, but this is not required. Place all of this in a blender and blend until smooth. Then paint it on your rock. Remember that moss tends to grow on the north side of most trees and rocks. It also likes cool, damp, shady locations, the cracks of stones. Placing your mixture on your rock in places where moss prefers to grow will make your rock seem more natural. Remember to mist your moss frequently to keep it moist and encourage growth. It may take a few months to over a year for the moss to establish itself.