How to Use Gravel As Mulch

A mulch layer helps to suppress weeds, adds a visually pleasing cover to landscape areas and helps to maintain consistent moisture and temperature levels in the soil. Gravel and other inorganic rock materials make a low-maintenance mulch layer ideal for rock gardens, herb gardens, cacti gardens and areas not planted. Unlike organic mulches, gravel does not break down over time and is heavy enough to be effective in windy areas.

Rake
Landscape fabric

Instructions

- 1
  Clear the planting area of weeds, grasses and other plant material. Remove stones and sticks that could puncture the landscape fabric material. Smooth out the soil in the garden area, using a metal rake.
- 2
  Spread landscape fabric or weed mat material over the garden area. When laying landscape fabric or weed mat in areas that have established plants, cut a slit in the material and slip the fabric over the top of the plant. Smooth it out on the ground around the base of the plant.
- 3
  Cut out the areas for planting. Make a hole large enough for the root ball specifications for each plant. Finish planting the area before laying the gravel mulch layer.
- 4
  Spread the gravel mulch layer 2 to 4 inches deep evenly over the area on top of the landscape fabric or weed mat. Hold the gravel back 2 to 4 inches from the base of the plants. Rake the gravel mulch layer smooth over the landscape area.

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