Maintaining Your River Rock Landscape: Tips And Techniques

Posted on: 30 May 2023

If you've decided to incorporate river rock into your outdoor living space, you probably already know that its rustic appeal and natural beauty bring a unique accent to your outdoor living space — and naturally, you want to retain that aesthetic. Like any other part of your landscaping, these rocks require maintenance to preserve their appearance and function. Whether you're managing a small rock garden or a sprawling river rock pathway, here's what you need to know about maintaining the river rock in your landscaping:

Regular Cleaning Keeps Your Rocks Gleaming

Your river rocks, constantly exposed to the elements, will gradually accumulate dirt, dust, and debris. You might notice a dullness creeping over their normally vibrant colors. Don't worry; all you need is a regular cleaning routine. Use a garden hose to wash off the surface-level dirt. If you find stubborn stains, a pressure washer can restore your rocks' natural shine. Remember, regular cleaning is the key to ensuring that your river rock landscape continues to look its best.

Weeding Between the Rocks

In spite of the weed-suppressing properties of river rock landscaping, the occasional stubborn weed might pop up between the rocks. These can be an eyesore and may detract from the overall aesthetic you're trying to maintain. Weeds have a way of growing out of control in a short period of time, so it's essential to nip the problem in the bud before this occurs by getting into the habit of walking through your landscape regularly and pulling out any weeds you spot. A simple weeding tool can help you remove the root as well.

Replenishing and Replacing the Rocks

Over time, you might notice that your river rocks are looking sparse or faded. In high-traffic areas, such as pathways, the rocks may become displaced or ground down. Replenish these areas as needed by adding new rocks. When purchasing replacements, aim to match the size and color of the existing rocks as closely as possible for a seamless look.

Ensuring Proper Drainage

One vital, yet often overlooked, aspect of maintaining a river rock landscape is ensuring proper drainage. River rocks can slow water absorption into the soil, which is often beneficial but can lead to water pooling if not monitored. If you notice standing water in your rock landscape after rain, you may need to adjust the landscape's grade or consider incorporating a drainage system.

If you want to add river rocks to your landscaping, reach out to a company like A & A Materials.

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