How to Build a Rock Garden
with
JJ Burkart
Rock gardens are a great way to add color and texture to your lawn. Learn how to build a rock garden in your yard.
Transcript: How to Build a Rock Garden
Hi, I'm JJ Burkart for About.com Home. Today I am going to show you how to beautify your property by adding a rock garden.Different spaces and climates will call for different designs and plantings. However, the common goal is to add interest to a specific area of your yard.
Plan the Rock Garden
Before you begin, you will need to do some planning. In this instance, we are adding a rock garden to a wooded area along a driveway approximately 10 feet by 4 feet.You will have to estimate the number of rocks you need. Most stone vendors will help you determine this based on the dimensions of your space. Often these can be delivered or to save money you can pick them up yourself with a trailer.
There are many types of rocks to choose from. I am using fieldstone native to this area to maintain a natural look to my garden.
You will also need to estimate and purchase topsoil and whatever plantings you desire. If you need help selecting plants, ask your local nursery.
Prepare the Rock Garden Site
The first thing to do is to prepare the site. This involves digging up any existing foliage and grading the ground.Now place your rocks. There are many options based on your aesthetic preference. In this case, I am making a border, or ring, to separate my flowers from the surrounding forest.
Lay the Rock Garden Foundation
Next, spread a layer of topsoil 1-2 feet deep across the garden area. Then cover the area with landscape fabric. This can be found at any home improvement store and protects against weed invasion.Add Plants to the Rock Garden
Lay out your plants approximately where you want to plant them. Refer to the spacing instructions on the tags. Once you have arranged the plants where you want them, cut holes in the fabric.Dig holes and place the plants in the holes. All roots should be covered with soil. Pack soil around the stem of the plant.
Fill in Rock Garden Spaces
Now spread mulch or shredded bark, lava rocks, or some other landscape cover material to fill in the spaces between the plants. Then just water and watch them grow.Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the Web at homegarden.about.com.