Where To Buy Small Rocks For Landscaping: Your Ultimate Guide?

Small rocks for landscaping, also known as decorative gravel, are versatile materials for enhancing your outdoor spaces, and rockscapes.net offers a wide selection. This guide explores where to buy them, how to use them, and everything you need to know for successful landscaping.

1. What Are The Benefits of Using Small Rocks for Landscaping?

Small rocks for landscaping offer numerous aesthetic and functional advantages. They enhance visual appeal, improve drainage, and reduce weed growth, creating low-maintenance and attractive outdoor spaces.

Aesthetic Appeal: Small rocks come in various colors, shapes, and textures, allowing you to create visually stunning landscapes. They can be used to accentuate garden beds, pathways, and water features, adding a touch of elegance and natural beauty. Rockscapes.net provides a diverse range of options to suit any design preference.
Improved Drainage: Rocks promote excellent drainage by preventing water from pooling around plants. This is particularly beneficial in areas with heavy rainfall or poorly draining soil, reducing the risk of root rot and other moisture-related issues.
Weed Control: A layer of small rocks acts as a natural weed barrier, suppressing weed growth and reducing the need for herbicides. This helps maintain a clean and tidy landscape with minimal effort.
Low Maintenance: Unlike grass, small rocks require little to no maintenance. They don’t need mowing, watering, or fertilizing, making them an ideal choice for busy homeowners.
Erosion Control: On slopes and embankments, small rocks can prevent soil erosion by holding the soil in place. This is particularly useful in areas prone to landslides or soil runoff.

2. What Types of Small Rocks Are Best for Landscaping?

The best type of small rock for landscaping depends on your specific needs and aesthetic preferences. Popular choices include river rocks, pea gravel, lava rocks, and crushed stone, each offering unique benefits and visual characteristics.

River Rocks: River rocks are smooth, rounded stones that come in a variety of colors and sizes. They are ideal for creating natural-looking pathways, garden borders, and water features. Their smooth texture makes them comfortable to walk on and safe for children and pets.

River rocks landscaping

Pea Gravel: Pea gravel consists of small, uniformly sized pebbles that are typically beige, brown, or gray. It’s commonly used for driveways, walkways, and play areas due to its affordability and ease of installation. Pea gravel provides a stable and permeable surface, allowing water to drain freely.
Lava Rocks: Lava rocks are lightweight, porous stones that come in shades of red, black, and brown. They are excellent for mulching garden beds, as they help retain moisture, insulate the soil, and suppress weed growth. Lava rocks also add a unique, volcanic look to your landscape.
Crushed Stone: Crushed stone is angular and irregular in shape, making it ideal for creating stable and durable surfaces. It’s commonly used for driveways, pathways, and retaining walls. Crushed stone is available in various sizes and colors, allowing you to customize your landscape to your liking.
Decomposed Granite: Decomposed granite (DG) is a fine, gravel-like material that is often used for pathways and patios. It compacts well, creating a firm and stable surface that is easy to walk on. DG is also permeable, allowing water to drain through it.

3. Where Can I Buy Small Rocks for Landscaping Near Me?

Finding a reliable supplier of small rocks for landscaping is crucial for ensuring the quality and suitability of your materials. Local nurseries, garden centers, and stone yards are excellent places to source a variety of rocks.

Local Nurseries and Garden Centers: Nurseries and garden centers typically carry a selection of small rocks for landscaping, including river rocks, pea gravel, and lava rocks. They offer the advantage of allowing you to see and feel the rocks before you buy them.
Stone Yards: Stone yards specialize in providing a wide range of natural stones and aggregates, including small rocks for landscaping. They often have larger quantities available and can offer competitive pricing. Stone yards may also provide delivery services for your convenience.
Online Retailers: Online retailers like rockscapes.net offer a convenient way to browse and purchase small rocks for landscaping from the comfort of your home. They often have a wider selection than local stores and can ship directly to your doorstep.
Big Box Home Improvement Stores: Home improvement stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s also sell small rocks for landscaping. While their selection may be limited, they can be a convenient option for smaller projects.

4. How Much Do Small Rocks for Landscaping Cost?

The cost of small rocks for landscaping varies depending on the type of rock, quantity, and supplier. Generally, pea gravel and crushed stone are the most affordable options, while river rocks and lava rocks may be more expensive.

Factors Affecting Cost:
- Type of Rock: The type of rock significantly impacts the cost. River rocks, with their smooth texture and varied colors, often command a higher price than crushed stone. Pea gravel, known for its affordability, is generally the least expensive option.
- Quantity: Buying in bulk typically reduces the cost per unit. Suppliers often offer discounts for larger orders, making it more economical for larger landscaping projects.
- Supplier: Prices can vary between suppliers. Local nurseries may have higher prices than stone yards or online retailers due to overhead costs. Comparing prices from different sources can help you find the best deal.
- Delivery: Delivery costs can add to the overall expense. Some suppliers offer free delivery for large orders, while others charge a fee based on distance and weight.
Average Prices:
- Pea Gravel: $30-$50 per cubic yard
- River Rocks: $80-$120 per cubic yard
- Lava Rocks: $100-$150 per cubic yard
- Crushed Stone: $40-$70 per cubic yard
Tips for Saving Money:
- Buy in Bulk: Purchase the rocks in bulk to take advantage of discounted prices.
- Compare Prices: Get quotes from multiple suppliers to find the best deal.
- Consider Delivery Options: Inquire about delivery costs and explore options for picking up the rocks yourself if possible.
- Choose Affordable Options: Opt for more affordable rock types like pea gravel or crushed stone if budget is a concern.

5. How Do I Calculate How Many Small Rocks I Need?

Calculating the amount of small rocks needed for your landscaping project involves determining the area you want to cover and the desired depth of the rock layer. This ensures you purchase the right amount of materials, avoiding shortages or excess.

Measure the Area:
- Measure the length and width of the area you want to cover with small rocks. If the area is irregular in shape, divide it into smaller, more manageable sections and measure each one separately.
Determine the Desired Depth:
- Decide on the depth of the rock layer you want to achieve. A depth of 2-3 inches is generally recommended for most landscaping applications, providing adequate coverage and weed suppression.
Calculate the Volume:
- Multiply the area (length x width) by the desired depth to calculate the volume of rocks needed. Be sure to use consistent units of measurement (e.g., feet or inches).
Convert Units:
- Convert the volume from cubic feet or cubic inches to cubic yards, as rocks are typically sold by the cubic yard. There are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard.
Account for Waste:
- Add an extra 10-15% to your calculated volume to account for waste and settling. This ensures you have enough rocks to complete your project without running short.
Example Calculation:
- Let’s say you want to cover an area that is 10 feet long and 5 feet wide with a 2-inch layer of small rocks.
  - Area = 10 feet x 5 feet = 50 square feet
  - Depth = 2 inches = 0.167 feet
  - Volume = 50 square feet x 0.167 feet = 8.35 cubic feet
  - Volume in cubic yards = 8.35 cubic feet / 27 cubic feet per cubic yard = 0.31 cubic yards
  - Accounting for waste = 0.31 cubic yards x 1.10 (10% waste) = 0.34 cubic yards
- Therefore, you would need approximately 0.34 cubic yards of small rocks for your project.

6. How To Install Small Rocks for Landscaping?

Installing small rocks for landscaping is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps. Proper preparation and installation techniques will ensure a long-lasting and attractive landscape feature.

Prepare the Area:
- Clear the area of any existing vegetation, debris, and large rocks. Level the ground and compact the soil to create a stable base for the rocks.
Install Weed Barrier Fabric:
- Lay down a layer of weed barrier fabric over the prepared area. This will prevent weeds from growing up through the rocks and help maintain a clean landscape. Overlap the edges of the fabric by several inches to prevent weed growth at the seams.
Spread the Rocks:
- Using a shovel or wheelbarrow, spread the small rocks evenly over the weed barrier fabric. Rake the rocks to distribute them uniformly and create a smooth surface.
Compact the Rocks:
- Use a hand tamper or plate compactor to compact the rocks, creating a stable and durable surface. This will also help prevent the rocks from shifting or settling over time.
Add Edging (Optional):
- Install edging around the perimeter of the rock area to contain the rocks and create a defined border. Edging can be made from various materials, such as plastic, metal, or stone.
Maintenance:
- Regularly remove any weeds or debris that may accumulate in the rocks. Rake the rocks occasionally to maintain their appearance and prevent compaction.

7. What Are Some Creative Landscaping Ideas With Small Rocks?

Small rocks can be used in a variety of creative ways to enhance your landscape design. From creating pathways and garden borders to accentuating water features and rock gardens, the possibilities are endless.

Pathways: Use small rocks like pea gravel or decomposed granite to create charming pathways through your garden. These materials provide a stable and permeable surface that is easy to walk on and blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Garden Borders: Define the edges of your garden beds with a border of small rocks. This not only adds visual appeal but also helps contain mulch and prevent soil erosion. River rocks are an excellent choice for creating natural-looking garden borders.
Water Features: Incorporate small rocks into your water features to create a natural and tranquil ambiance. Use rocks to line the edges of ponds and streams, or create a cascading waterfall effect. The sound of water flowing over the rocks adds a soothing element to your landscape.
Rock Gardens: Create a rock garden by arranging small to medium-sized rocks in a visually appealing manner. Plant drought-tolerant plants like succulents and cacti among the rocks to create a low-maintenance and eye-catching landscape feature.
Dry River Beds: Design a dry river bed using small to medium-sized rocks to mimic the look of a natural stream bed. This is a great way to add visual interest to your landscape and improve drainage in areas with poor soil.
Mulching: Use lava rocks or other small rocks as mulch in your garden beds. Rocks help retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and insulate the soil, creating a healthy environment for your plants.

8. How Do I Choose the Right Color of Small Rocks for My Landscape?

Selecting the right color of small rocks for your landscape is essential for creating a cohesive and visually appealing design. Consider the color of your home, surrounding vegetation, and personal preferences when making your selection.

Match Your Home’s Exterior: Choose rock colors that complement the exterior of your home. For example, if your home has warm tones, opt for rocks in shades of beige, brown, or tan. If your home has cool tones, consider rocks in shades of gray, blue, or white.
Consider the Surrounding Vegetation: Select rock colors that contrast or complement the surrounding vegetation. For example, if you have a lot of green foliage, consider using rocks in contrasting colors like red or black to create visual interest.
Think About the Overall Style: Choose rock colors that match the overall style of your landscape. For a natural and rustic look, opt for rocks in earthy tones like brown, tan, or gray. For a more modern and contemporary look, consider using rocks in bolder colors like black, white, or red.
Test Before You Commit: Before purchasing a large quantity of rocks, buy a small sample and place it in your landscape to see how it looks in different lighting conditions. This will help you make a more informed decision and avoid costly mistakes.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best color of small rocks for your landscape is the one you like the most. Choose colors that make you happy and create a landscape that you enjoy spending time in.

9. What Are the Benefits of Using Rockscapes.net for Your Landscaping Needs?

Rockscapes.net offers a comprehensive solution for all your landscaping needs, providing high-quality small rocks, expert advice, and exceptional customer service. Discover how Rockscapes.net can transform your outdoor spaces into stunning landscapes.

Wide Selection of Rocks:
- Rockscapes.net boasts an extensive inventory of small rocks for landscaping, including river rocks, pea gravel, lava rocks, and crushed stone. With a variety of colors, sizes, and textures available, you’re sure to find the perfect rocks to complement your landscape design.
High-Quality Materials:
- Rockscapes.net is committed to providing only the highest quality materials to its customers. All rocks are carefully sourced and inspected to ensure they meet strict standards for durability, appearance, and performance.
Expert Advice:
- The team at Rockscapes.net consists of experienced landscaping professionals who are passionate about helping customers create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. They can provide expert advice on rock selection, installation techniques, and landscape design.
Competitive Prices:
- Rockscapes.net offers competitive prices on all its products, making it an affordable option for homeowners and contractors alike. They also offer discounts for bulk orders and frequent customers.
Convenient Online Ordering:
- Rockscapes.net’s user-friendly website makes it easy to browse and purchase small rocks for landscaping from the comfort of your home. With detailed product descriptions, high-resolution images, and secure online ordering, you can shop with confidence.
Delivery Services:
- Rockscapes.net offers convenient delivery services to your home or job site. They have a fleet of trucks and experienced drivers who can deliver your order safely and efficiently.
Exceptional Customer Service:
- Rockscapes.net is committed to providing exceptional customer service to every customer. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff are always available to answer your questions and help you with your landscaping needs. You can reach them at Address: 1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States, Phone: +1 (480) 965-9011, Website: rockscapes.net.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Buying Small Rocks for Landscaping

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the process of buying and using small rocks for landscaping. Get answers to common queries and make informed decisions for your landscaping projects.

What is the best size of small rocks for landscaping?
- The best size of small rocks for landscaping depends on the application. For pathways and driveways, pea gravel or crushed stone that is 3/8 to 1/2 inch in diameter is ideal. For garden beds and mulching, lava rocks or river rocks that are 1 to 2 inches in diameter are a good choice.
How do I prevent weeds from growing in my small rock landscape?
- To prevent weeds from growing in your small rock landscape, install a layer of weed barrier fabric underneath the rocks. This will block sunlight and prevent weed seeds from germinating. You can also apply a pre-emergent herbicide to the rocks to further prevent weed growth.
How do I clean small rocks in my landscape?
- To clean small rocks in your landscape, use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to rinse off any dirt or debris. For stubborn stains, you can use a mild detergent or pressure washer. Be careful not to damage the rocks or surrounding plants when cleaning.
Can I use small rocks for drainage around my foundation?
- Yes, small rocks can be used for drainage around your foundation. They help to direct water away from the foundation and prevent water damage. Use a layer of gravel that is at least 6 inches deep and extends several feet away from the foundation.
How do I choose the right type of small rocks for my soil type?
- The type of soil you have can influence your choice of small rocks. For sandy soils, consider using rocks that help retain moisture, such as lava rocks or river rocks. For clay soils, opt for rocks that improve drainage, such as pea gravel or crushed stone.
Are small rocks safe for children and pets?
- Small rocks are generally safe for children and pets, but it’s important to choose non-toxic materials. Avoid using rocks that have been treated with chemicals or pesticides. River rocks are a good choice for play areas, as they are smooth and rounded.
How often should I replace the small rocks in my landscape?
- The frequency with which you need to replace the small rocks in your landscape depends on the type of rock and the amount of wear and tear they experience. In general, you should replace the rocks every 2-3 years to maintain their appearance and functionality.
Can I mix different types of small rocks in my landscape?
- Yes, you can mix different types of small rocks in your landscape to create a unique and visually appealing design. Just be sure to choose rocks that complement each other in terms of color, texture, and size.
How do I prevent small rocks from sinking into the soil?
- To prevent small rocks from sinking into the soil, install a layer of geotextile fabric underneath the rocks. This will provide a stable base for the rocks and prevent them from mixing with the soil.
Where can I find inspiration for landscaping with small rocks?
- You can find inspiration for landscaping with small rocks in magazines, websites, and social media platforms dedicated to landscape design. Rockscapes.net is also a great resource for ideas and inspiration.

Ready to transform your landscape with beautiful small rocks? Visit rockscapes.net today to explore our wide selection, get expert advice, and start creating the outdoor space of your dreams.