How to Landscape With Red Lava Rock

The red lava rock that property owners use in landscaping is the igneous rock scoria. Scoria is an extrusive rock that forms when lava erupts from a volcano. Holes form in the scoria when air is trapped inside the molten lava as it travels through the air and forms vesicles or cavities as the rock cools, hardens, and the gas escapes. Scoria is a common landscape material because of its attractive color, texture and durability. Rock mulch is also effective at controlling weeds in your garden beds.

Lava rock
Edging material
Rake
Shovel
Work gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Install edging material around all of your landscape beds. You can choose any kind of edging that looks nice with your home, such as rock blocks or strips made of wood, metal or plastic. The edging will keep the rock inside the beds.
- 2
  Remove existing mulch and debris from inside the beds. Use a rake to smooth and level the surface of the landscape beds.
- 3
  Fill the landscape beds with lava rock. Use enough rock to fill the beds with one to two layers or rock pieces.
- 4
  Spread the rock evenly around the beds using a shovel. Due to the porous nature of the scoria, the edges can be very sharp. Wear heavy work gloves when working with lava rock. Keep the rock from touching plants, so the sharp edges do not damage shrubs or flowers.

Will Vineger Kill Grass?

How to Add Privacy to a Backyard

Landscaping Basics