Stone Features in Landscaping

Walkway

• Stone walkways are simple to install and can tie together other landscaping features, such as a pond and a flower garden. Paving stones are split so the surfaces can form a flat walkway. Flagstones, fieldstones, bluestone and slate are available as naturally shaped, snapped pieces or as uniformly cut tiles and pavers. A base of gravel and sand supports the stones so they don't sink over time, and simple wood or metal edge restraints keep them from sliding. Fit snapped stones pieces together for an organic, rustic look, or create an intricate pattern using stone tiles of different sizes. A well-laid stone walkway requires little maintenance and complements the vibrant colors of surrounding growth.

Walls

• Whether used as an attractive property border or a retaining wall against a slope, dry-stacked stone walls add a timeless style to your entire landscape. Large, flat flagstones, fieldstones or sandstones provide a strong textural contrast to thick foliage and colorful flowers. Stack a stone wall no taller than 3 feet to ensure its structural integrity. For a slope taller than 3 feet, build tiered retaining walls that resemble steps ascending the slope, and use the landings provided by each level as flowerbeds.

Borders

• Define the shape of your gardens and paths with stone edging. Use uncut medium-sized fieldstones or flagstones for raised borders, or use travertine or sandstone pavers for borders raised only an inch or so above the ground so you can easily mow around them. A gravel foundation supports the stones and allows water to escape from beneath. Borders block invasive weeds and ground cover from encroaching and help deter foot and pet traffic. Raised borders also retain soil in a garden. For an area with poor soil, create a raised flowerbed by stacking the border stones about a foot high and fill the interior with native topsoil and compost.

Boulders

• Placing a large boulder in a garden or open area creates a striking focal point. A boulder can double as a seat beside a pond or beneath a shady tree. Create a rock garden by covering the area with river rocks and placing multiple boulders around the site. Decide where you want to position boulders beforehand, as they're challenging to move.