Different uses for rockery rocks

Different uses for rockery rocks

A rock is a rock. Or is it? Nay, rocks are far more than simply hunks of hardened earth. They come in all shapes and sizes, from little ones akin to a pea to colossal boulders big as a house. They are rugged and smooth, colorful and plain. And all that makes for a versatile, attractive, enduring landscaping choice. Indeed, rocks have been used in construction for centuries (think pyramids in Egypt) and adorned suburban lawns and grand city landmarks with equal aplomb. Rock gardens in particular are especially popular, employing the use of rockery rocks to create visually stunning or structurally sound designs.

What’s a rockery rock?

A perhaps confusing term at first glance, rockery rocks are landscaping rocks used for building rock walls, garden features, and other features. Thanks to their millennia-long lineage, rocks provide rugged good looks with a simultaneous aura of calm and when blended with colorful flowers, shrubbery, and related accoutrements, the rockery appeal makes a grand statement.

For example, rockery gardens are just that—thoughtfully designed conglomerations of different-sized rocks mixed with complementing flora. The result is a natural and comfortable bond with your natural surroundings.

Popular uses for rockery rocks

These types of rock gardens are ideal accents for natural slopes or berms to create intentional curves or ascending arrangements of different floral species. They are also highly efficient tools for erosion control, hedgerows, property delineation, and even creative sculptures. Other popular uses include:

  • Rustic retaining walls
  • Borders for pathways, tree groves or driveways
  • Surrounding accents for a pond or other water feature
  • Base for a dry riverbed feature
  • Foundation layer for a backyard path
  • Stepping stones leading to a gazebo or patio area
  • Terraced slope filed with plants

Choosing the right material

It’s important to put some thought in selecting the type of rockery material that best fits with your natural surroundings and specific design plans. A popular strategy is to incorporate a variety of sizes of the same stone for a seamless and clean look. You can also choose stone with colors that match existing hardscapes or complement your home’s exterior color and look. Hot tip: Look closely at your stone of choice in different outdoor light (bright to shady) and pour water over the material to reveal color change when wet.

Blend in native perennial plants for the perfect paring with nature’s inherent conditions, while reducing your outdoor maintenance chore list.