DIY Stone Garden

Select a location for the stone garden. Sloping areas are a common choice, as rocks with plantings can help prevent erosion. You can also use flat areas for the stone garden. To create dimension in flat areas you can mound supplemental soil and place stones and plantings within it. Be aware that soil and stones will settle and flatten somewhat when watered repeatedly.

Prepare the area for planting by removing existing weeds and debris.

Evaluate the landscape's existing rocks to determine whether you need to add or remove any to achieve the density of stones you desire in the garden. Decide whether you want to create a natural effect using only stones that might be in your geographical region or if you desire the playful contrast of mixing different colors and sizes of natural and artificial stones found at garden centers.

Add stones. Carefully dig out just enough soil to fit a specific stone snugly into the slope. The stones will fit together like a mosaic. Your goal is to generate enough coverage both to create a visually appealing effect and to support plantings.

Add plantings. Use a combination of evergreen and flowering alpine plants that are perennial to your area. Alternatively, consider cacti or compact, slow-growing annuals that seem to fit the look of your stone garden. Fast-growing annuals will quickly cover the rocks, lessening the impact of your stones.

Place garden accessories such as bird baths, frog houses, seating areas and water features in the garden to enhance the atmosphere to your taste.