Beds Made of Stone

Types

• Before beginning designing your garden bed, decide what type stone you will use. There are several factors to consider including cost, style and size. In some cases, you can reuse stone found on your property or you can inquire within a construction site or farm to ask if they have stone they want to get rid of or want to sell for low cost. You can also purchase specialty stone from a stone company or landscape company, but you will likely pay more due to the cut and delivery of the stone. Popular types include limestone, flagstone, quarry stone, fieldstone, creek rocks, boulders and large stone slabs.

Base

• If you have a large amount of stone, consider creating the base of your bed from stone. Inexpensive creek rock makes a solid base for most garden beds. Creek rock is often round but can be irregular in size in shape, making it good filler for the bed’s bottom, especially if you plan on covering up the base. If you want your rock to overlap the edges, opt for a more decorative rock, such as limestone or flagstone.

Border

• Stone borders alongside a stone bed provide natural accents to small ponds or beds along the water elements. The border of your stone bed not only shapes the garden area, but also protects it from lawnmowers and foot traffic. A stone border on your bed also supports and secures your landscape fabric blocking weeds and protecting spring bulbs. When creating a stone border, dig a small trench around your garden perimeter. The trench ensures that your stones won’t shift and stay secure through elements and seasonal changes.

Garden Accent

• A stone garden bed is functional and provides a natural plant border, but it also accents your landscape, and favorite plants or vegetables. Large stones and boulders are good accents in gardens or along stone bed pathways. A stone bed within the garden is a way of allowing water to funnel through and irrigate your garden. If you have a waterfall, stones help the water travel away from roots, preventing root rot and damage to plants. This is especially beneficial if your garden is located near a downspout or low-lying area.