If you don’t like gardening or you want to add a bit of texture to your garden, rocks are a great way to add a dynamic element without adding too much work for yourself. There are a wide variety of ways you can use rocks; here are a few simple suggestions.
A few things to remember: Be careful when working with rocks. It is fairly obvious, but rocks are heavy and sharp. They can cause you problems with your back if you are lifting a lot at a time, and they can cut you if you handle them quickly. Use gloves and a wheelbarrow, and you should be fine.
1) Large rocks in a dirt garden – Spread a few large/medium-sized rocks randomly around an open area. The area can be small or large, shaded or open. We used this solution for a ‘dead zone’ in our garden where we just could not get anything to grow well. Now it looks quite picturesque with a variety of colored rocks, a bit of moss, and whatever grows in between. If the weeds start getting too high, I spray them with vinegar and kill them off, but for the most part, things look quite pretty there.
2) Small rocks in a large pile – This is another solution that usually works best in a small space, but it can also work well in a large space. Chose a selection of small rocks of one type. If you are decorating a larger space consider using two or three different types or colors of rocks. Then you can make shapes with the rocks, including rectangles or triangles. You can separate the different types of rocks with wooden boards to keep them from mixing. The boards will be hidden by the rocks, so you will only see the color separation.
3) Zen garden – If you have patience and time, designing your own Zen garden or working with an expert can also be a relaxing way to landscape with rocks. You can build one with either soil and large rocks or a mix of small rocks. You will need a small rake to keep the garden tidy. I worked with my local school last year to help them design a Zen garden, and it was a very peaceful and rewarding experience. You only need a small area of land to easily incorporate your Zen garden in with the rest of your gardening.
