Landscape Edging

Stones symbolise the relationship between mankind and nature. Landscaping with stones make it possible to bring nature, as close as possible to the human beings. The landscaping stones help to give life, versatility and beauty to the landscape. Landscaping with stones is also termed as hardscape. There is a wide variety of landscaping stones, in different colours, sizes, shapes and texture. First identify the structures that must be constructed with landscaping stones. Then choose stones with the desired features, like shape, size, colour and even texture. The landscaping stones can be used to develop a stunning, charming, relaxing, peaceful and comfortable atmosphere. Besides use of landscaping stones can make a great first impression, and continue to produce a scenic visual impact.

Landscaping stones allow gardens to realise their full potential, by making them look fantastic, visually. Yet they can be appealing, modern, unique and tranquil. Decorating with natural stones creates a contrast with the other elements. Moreover landscaping stones like natural rocks also make an interesting and attractive sitting area for the family, to enjoy the garden. Furthermore landscaping stones can be arranged strategically to create a focal point. In addition, they can be positioned to hide the existing imperfections and instead become points of visual appeal. A rock garden can be done in two ways. The common way is to pile up stones in harmonious groups. Besides this, another way is to make a bedrock look like a natural outcropping. Meanwhile plants can grow in small gaps in these rock groupings. Rock gardens must have a carefully designed drainage arrangement to drain excess water.

A popular way of using rocks is in the Japanese landscaping method. Japanese landscaping is done in circular or square patterns. One way is by placing smooth stones, in different patterns. Japanese landscaping can be done outside as well as inside, and even in small areas. Since these rocks are shiny black, flat, small and smooth, it can be arranged in a variety of ways. These stones are usually available with the Japanese dealers. Another way is by combining three elements: stone, water and plants. Similarly a Zen garden combines strategically black rocks and a stretch of sand, usually white in colour. However, when using landscaping stones, it is better not to use dark coloured stones in shady or dark corners. On the other hand, bright coloured stones can make the environment, more stimulating.

For landscaping, both natural and artificial rocks are used. Different stones used are pebbles, cobbles, sandstones, limestone, marble, granite, river rocks, Japanese rocks and others.

• Cobblestones formed from the riverbeds are used for pathways, demarking, grass patterns, grass verges, tree surrounds, pool surrounds and garden edges.
• Pebble stone, a natural stone is used for walkways, pools, pool decks, fountains, landscaping, patios, water features and barbecue areas.
• Sand stones are used for making walls. Generally available in blends of blue and pink.
• Slate is used in waters, and is available usually in black, green and red colour.
• Limestone, available in common shades, is used in walls.
• Marble is used for paving and walls, and is used in hues of white, pink and yellow.
• Granite, an igneous stone is easy to maintain and is usually seen in dark colours.
• River rocks are very durable and perfect for retaining walls and walkways.
• Flagstones are smooth and thin and perfect for patios and walkways.

For pathways, use coarse stones, as it is slip resistant. Landscaping stones can be used to create attractive borders and edges, in different decorative patterns. Sandstone, granite and marble are used extensively in landscaping. Then too, landscaping stones are used in walls, patio floors/walls, decks, stonewalls, pergola columns, terracing and steps. The stones chosen are also dependent on the budget. By using expensive stones, value of the property can be increased.