A great garden space can really transform your property, providing you with a beautiful outdoor retreat that you and your guests can enjoy. Regardless of where you’re looking to add a garden to your property (or what type of garden you have in mind), choosing the right materials can make all the difference when it comes to the final result.
And the more you think about the details of your garden, the more you’ll realize just how many different decisions you’ll need to make. From choosing materials for your garden pathway to selecting edging materials and everything in between, there’s a lot to think about.
For many garden designs, natural stone is a suitable and practical option. Not only can natural stone add beauty and elegance to any garden design, but it is also durable enough to last for many years.
Not sure where to begin when it comes to selecting the right stone for your garden? Consider a few of the more popular stone options, including bluestone, cobblestone, and stone aggregates.
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Bluestone
Bluestone is a unique type of limestone that is quarried in New England and boasts a naturally rough finish. This rugged finish makes it a very popular choice in garden design because it provides traction on otherwise slick surfaces, such as garden walkways that can otherwise become very slippery when wet. Meanwhile, the natural beauty of bluestone makes it a great option to add some elegance to any outdoor space – garden or otherwise.
Bluestone is also very versatile; because it comes in a wide range of sizes and shapes, you can incorporate it into just about any garden design you may have in mind.
Cobblestone
Looking to achieve a classic look with your new garden design? If you want something that is both timeless and durable, then you may want to consider incorporating cobblestone. Specifically, cobblestones are antique-looking granite stones that can vary in size. Some may be just a few inches in diameter, whereas others may measure closer to 10 inches or larger. These stones were used to pave streets and walkways many years ago and are known for their ability to stand up to time.
There are a variety of potential ways to use cobblestone in your garden design. Many will use this rustic-looking stone to create a meandering garden path. However, because they are available in a wide range of sizes, cobblestones can also be incorporated as borders for garden beds.
Aggregates
Last but not least, you may want to consider stone aggregates in your garden design. Aggregates refer specifically to crushed stones that are available in a variety of colors and sizes. Aggregates are a popular budget-friendly choice because they are relatively inexpensive and can be used in many different ways. With smaller aggregates, you may consider laying down an informal path through your garden. Many people also enjoy using stone aggregates in garden spaces due to their excellent drainage, making them a great mulch around your favorite plants.
Choosing the Right Stone for Your Garden
With so many excellent stone options to choose from, you may be wondering how to decide which is right for you. First of all, you don’t have to choose; it is not uncommon to incorporate many different types of stone into one garden. You could absolutely use one type of stone for your garden path and another type of stone for your landscaping borders or other applications.
However, as you choose between stones, there are some things to keep in mind. For example, budget may be a concern for many that are designing a garden from scratch. Generally, aggregates tend to be the most affordable stone option, but it’s important to note that you may need to replenish them in the spring. Bluestone, on the other hand, may be a little more expensive but it is typically a permanent solution that you don’t have to replace every year.
When it comes to your new garden design, you can’t go wrong with any of these natural stone choices. From beautiful bluestone to rustic cobblestone and practical stone aggregates, each has its benefits. No matter what you choose, you’ll enjoy the durability and beauty of natural stone in your new garden space for years to come!
