Gravel is basically small pebbles quarried from various types of rock and graded in size from about 5mm up to 30mm. Mostly angular in shape, the smoother, more rounded gravel is known as pea gravel. Because of the diversity of material it comes from, there is a wide range of colours and textures available making gravel very versatile for use in the garden and around your property.
Decorative
Gravel is ideal as a decorative surface dressing which is low maintenance and high impact; it can be used to retain moisture around shrubs and in containers, or as a surface for paths and driveways.
Mediterranean style
The very popular Mediterranean style of gardening uses gravel to great effect. Ideally in a sunny area of the garden, use drought tolerant plants such as Lavender, Cistus, Euphorbias and ornamental grasses. Cover the soil around the plants with a weed suppressing membrane before adding about 2” depth of gravel. Choose larger sized gravel and a colour which blends well with other hard landscaping in the garden for a more natural look.
Containers
In your containers, gravel gives a finishing touch to enhance the look of your plants and helps retain water. Simply cover the surface with smaller gravel or horticultural grit, using a colour which complements the container. You may have to remove some soil first to avoid the gravel spilling out when watering.
Garden Path
Gravel is a relatively inexpensive surface for a garden path and is perfect in a cottage garden setting, giving a classic look to a meandering path alongside the herbaceous border.
Security
At the front of the house, a gravel driveway will always look attractive and it is known to be a deterrent to intruders due to the noise it makes underfoot. Driveway gravel is usually supplied from harder materials such as flint or granite and needs to be between 10mm and 20mm in size. Less than 10mm stones can be picked up in tyre treads and anything above 20mm can be a hazard if flicked up by traffic.
