How to Use River Rock in Landscaping

Many landscape artists use river rock to add subtle but contrasting colors to a home's landscape. River rock is often used to create paths and walkways in gardens, but many people like to use it to make borders around flower and garden beds or to create staging for art pieces, water features and grilling areas. However you plan to use river rock in your landscape, spend time preparing the area to prevent weeds from growing through the rocks.

Rope
Spray paint
Spade
Rake
Black plastic sheeting
Utility knife

Instructions

- 1
  Mark off the area where you are planning to use the river rock with rope or spray paint. Make a plan for how you want to use the river rock and draw it out on the ground.
- 2
  Excavate the area where you plan to use the river rock. Dig up all turf and other plant life. Dig to a depth of 4 to 6 inches to remove the bulk of the root systems. Dig deeper if you plan on using larger river rocks. Use a sturdy rake to level the soil.
- 3
  Lay down a sheet of heavy black plastic over the excavated area. Press the plastic into the area and use a utility knife to cut along the borders so the plastic will lie flat on the soil and along the walls of the area. The sheeting will help prevent plants from growing through the rocks. It will also help keep the project level over longer periods.
- 4
  Fill in the excavated area with the river rock. Start by lining the sides with the rock to keep the plastic up against the walls while you fill in the rest of the area. Work slowly to keep the plastic from shifting. Walk all over the area to help pack some of the rock down and get it level. Fill in more rock so that the project is level with the rest of the ground.

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