Are you looking for a way to enhance your garden? Adding a layer of covering to the gravel can be a great way to add aesthetic value to your outdoor space.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the different types of coverings that are available, the benefits of covering your gravel, and step-by-step instructions on how to lay stepping stones, install artificial turf, and install bark chips.
We’ll also cover tips for preventing weeds and maintenance tips to keep your coverings looking great.
Keep reading to learn how to cover gravel in your garden!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Covering gravel in a garden can be accomplished by laying down a weed barrier fabric to keep weeds from growing through the gravel, then adding a layer of sand for evenness, and finally spreading the gravel on the sand.
To prevent the gravel from washing away, you can also add a perimeter of edging around the gravel area to keep it in place.
You may also want to add a layer of mulch to the outside of the edging to help keep the gravel in place.
Types of Coverings for Gravel
When covering gravel in your garden, there are several options to choose from.
Stepping stones provide a stable surface to walk on while adding a bit of texture, color, and visual interest.
Artificial turf can give your garden an even more natural look, as well as providing a soft and comfortable surface to walk on.
Bark chips are a great way to add visual interest and provide a more durable and low-maintenance covering option for areas with heavy foot traffic.
For a more decorative look, gravel can be covered with decorative rocks or river rocks, which can be used to create interesting patterns and designs.
No matter which option you choose, it is important to lay down a weed barrier underneath the covering material to prevent weeds from growing.
Benefits of Covering Gravel
Covering gravel in a garden can be a great way to add texture, color, and visual interest to your outdoor space.
It can also help to prevent weeds from growing, and provide a stable surface to walk on.
There are many different ways to cover gravel, each with its own set of benefits.
Stepping stones are a great option for covering gravel because they provide a stable surface to walk on, and can be laid out in a variety of patterns and colors to create a unique look.
Additionally, if you have a large area to cover, using stepping stones can help to break up the space and create a more interesting look.
Artificial turf is another great option for covering gravel as it can give your garden a more natural look and feel.
Artificial turf is also low maintenance and can last for many years with proper care.
Additionally, artificial turf is also a great option for areas with heavy foot traffic, such as near a patio or deck.
Bark chips are another great way to cover gravel and add visual interest to your garden.
Bark chips come in a variety of colors and textures, and can be used to create a natural look in your garden.
Bark chips are also great for areas with heavy foot traffic, as they are durable and help to prevent weeds from growing.
No matter which method you choose to cover your gravel, make sure to lay down a weed barrier underneath the covering material to prevent weeds from growing.
This will help to ensure that your garden looks great for years to come.
Step-by-Step Guide to Laying Stepping Stones
Laying stepping stones in your garden can be a great way to add texture and color to your outdoor space.
This easy-to-follow guide will get you started on the right foot and help you cover your gravel and create a more inviting garden.
First, youll need to measure the area youd like to cover and determine the size and shape of the stepping stones.
Make sure to leave enough space between stones for grass or other plants to grow.
Once youve decided on the size and shape of the stones, youll need to prepare the area for installation.
Start by removing any grass and weeds from the area.
Next, dig a shallow trench in the area to be covered, making sure that its level and even.
After youve dug the trench, youll need to spread a weed barrier and secure it with stakes.
This will help prevent any weeds from growing.
Once the area is prepared, you can start laying the stepping stones.
Make sure to lay the stones evenly and level to ensure a stable surface to walk on.
You can also use sand or pea gravel to fill in the gaps between the stones.
Finally, you can fill in the surrounding area with soil or mulch.
This will help keep the stones in place and also give your garden a more finished look.
Now that you know how to cover your gravel with stepping stones, you can create a beautiful and inviting outdoor space.
Whether youre looking for a more traditional look or a modern touch, stepping stones are a great way to spruce up your garden.
So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your stepping stone project today!
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Artificial Turf
When it comes to covering gravel in your garden, one of the best options is to use artificial turf.
Artificial turf provides a modern, natural look thats easy to install and maintain.
Plus, it wont attract pests, and it can easily be removed if desired.
To get started, heres a step-by-step guide to installing artificial turf.
First, youll need to measure the area you want to cover.
Make sure to factor in a few extra inches for the turf to hang off the edges.
Once you have the measurements, you can cut the turf to size.
Next, youll need to lay down a weed barrier to prevent weeds from growing.
Weed barrier fabric is a great option for this, as its easy to install and wont break down over time.
Once the weed barrier is in place, you can lay down the artificial turf.
Make sure to line up the edges and smooth out any wrinkles or bumps.
To make sure the turf stays in place, youll need to secure it.
You can do this by using stakes or nails around the perimeter.
If youre using stakes, make sure to use ones that are long enough to penetrate the turf and the weed barrier.
Finally, youll need to add a layer of infill.
This will help the turf stay in place and provide cushioning for walking.
The infill should be spread evenly and lightly over the entire area.
Once the infill is in place, your artificial turf is ready to use! With a few simple steps and a bit of patience, you can easily cover your gravel in garden with artificial turf.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Bark Chips
Bark chips are an excellent way to cover gravel in your garden and add visual interest to your outdoor space. Not only do they look great, but they’re also a great way to prevent weeds from growing. Installing bark chips is fairly easy and can be done in a few simple steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Prep the area: Before you start laying down your bark chips, it’s important to make sure the area is properly prepped. Remove any existing weeds, rocks, or debris from the area. You’ll also want to make sure the soil is leveled and compacted. You can use a rake to level the soil and a tamper to compact it.
2. Lay down a weed barrier: Once the area is properly prepped, it’s time to lay down a weed barrier. A weed barrier is a fabric that helps prevent weeds from growing up through the bark chips. You can buy a weed barrier at your local garden center or online.
3. Install the bark chips: Now that you have your weed barrier in place, it’s time to install the bark chips. Spread the bark chips evenly over the area, making sure to overlap the edges of the weed barrier. You can use a rake to spread the bark chips evenly.
4. Finish up: Once the bark chips are in place, it’s time to finish up. If you want, you can add a layer of mulch to help keep the bark chips in place and add some extra visual interest. You’ll also want to make sure you water the area regularly to keep the bark chips from drying out.
Following these steps will help ensure that your bark chips are installed properly and last for years to come.
With the right preparation and installation, your garden will look great and be weed-free for years to come.
Tips for Preventing Weeds
One of the most important tips for covering gravel in your garden is to lay down a weed barrier before you begin.
This will help to prevent weeds from growing in the area and ruining the look of your garden.
Weed barriers come in many forms, including plastic sheets, fabric, and even newspapers.
Whichever material you choose, make sure to lay it down so that there are no gaps or overlaps and that it completely covers the gravel.
You may also want to consider adding a layer of mulch over the weed barrier to add extra protection and keep the soil moist.
Additionally, you may want to use a pre-emergent herbicide to further reduce the risk of weed growth.
This will help to create a weed-free environment that will allow your garden to thrive and look its best.
Maintenance for Your Coverings
Once your garden is covered in gravel, it’s important to make sure it stays in good condition. Here are some tips for keeping your gravel covered garden looking great:
Regularly inspect your garden for any signs of weed growth or damage to the covering material.
If you see any weeds, remove them right away and make sure to lay down a weed barrier to prevent future growth.
Spread a layer of fresh gravel over the covered area every few months.
This will help keep it looking fresh and vibrant.
If you have artificial turf, you’ll need to brush it regularly to keep it looking neat and tidy.
This will also help prevent weeds from growing.
If you have stepping stones, be sure to check them periodically for any signs of wear and tear.
Replace any cracked or broken stones as soon as possible.
For bark chip covered areas, you’ll need to rake them regularly to keep them looking neat and tidy.
This will help prevent weeds from forming and keep the chips from packing down.
Following these simple maintenance tips will help keep your gravel covered garden looking great for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Covering gravel in your garden is a great way to add texture and color to your outdoor space.
Whether you choose to use stepping stones, artificial turf, or bark chips, you will be sure to have a beautiful and unique garden.
Don’t forget to lay down a weed barrier underneath the covering material to prevent weeds from growing.
Now that you know how to cover gravel in your garden, get started and create the outdoor space of your dreams!