Stone is a popular material for use in landscaping. It can add beauty and functionality to any outdoor space and can be used to create pathways, walls, and other features. There are many different types of stone that can be used for landscaping, each with its own unique characteristics, colour and texture. In this article, we will discuss the most common types:
Natural Stone
When it comes to landscaping, natural stone is one of the most popular materials. From paving for patios and pools to stone cladding for walls, this versatile material can be used to create almost any type of outdoor space. One of the main advantages of using natural stone in landscaping is that it helps to improve water retention in the soil.
All of our stone products at Country Earth are natural stone.
The porous nature of natural stone and rock absorbs moisture during rainfall or watering, then slowly releases it back into the earth over time, preventing runoff and helping plants stay hydrated. What’s more, natural stone contains a wealth of nutrients and minerals that are beneficial for plant growth.
Overall, using natural stone in landscaping is a great way to create an outdoor space that looks beautiful and functions efficiently.
Stone Types:
Sandstone
Sandstone is a popular material for landscaping projects due to its attractive appearance and durable nature.
Sandstone is a type of sedimentary rock that forms from the cementing of sand grains over time.
This gives sandstone a unique textural appearance, with a granular surface that often contains intricate patterns or colours. In addition, this composition makes sandstone highly weather-resistant, meaning it can withstand harsh temperatures and environmental conditions without eroding or breaking down.
For these reasons, sandstone paving is very popular and is often used in patios, stepping stones or garden paths, retaining walls, and other landscaping features.
Whether you’re designing a rustic retreat or a modern oasis, sandstone can help you create the perfect outdoor space.
Limestone
Limestone is a type of sedimentary rock that is commonly used in landscaping.
It is formed from the remains of organisms that have been deposited over time on the ocean floor.
The main component of limestone is calcium carbonate, which gives the stone its characteristic light colour. In addition to being an attractive material for landscaping, limestone also has a number of practical benefits.
For example, it is extremely durable and weather-resistant, and a limestone paver is ideal for use in many outdoor applications. It is also relatively easy to work with, making it a popular choice for both professional landscapers and do-it-yourselfers.
Whether you are looking to add a natural touch to your garden or need a material that can stand up to the elements, limestone may be the perfect solution.
Granite
Granite is a popular choice for landscaping as it is both durable and attractive.
This igneous rock is composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica, making it resistant to weathering and erosion from wind and water. In addition, its high-density results in a beautifully textured surface that feature a variety of rich colours and patterns.
When used for walkways or pavers, granite provides excellent traction in wet or icy conditions. And because granite is naturally slip-resistant, it can also be used for patio paving, doorsteps, benches, and other types of hardscape design without the need for extra finishes or coatings.
Overall, granite offers an elegant and timeless look that can help to elevate any landscaping project.
Flagstone
First and foremost, flagstone stands out from other landscaping materials due to its natural beauty.
The unique colours and textures of each piece make it an attractive addition to any outdoor space. Additionally, flagstone has a sophisticated, understated look that makes it a popular choice for modern homes or commercial properties.
Beyond aesthetics, however, one of the key advantages of using flagstone in landscaping is its incredible durability. Thanks to its dense structure and high-quality quartz content, flagstone can withstand extreme heat, freezing temperatures, heavy rains, and other adverse conditions without suffering heavy damage.
As a result, flagstone is an ideal choice for use in pathways, walkways, stepping stones, patios and other outdoor installations that are exposed to wear and tear on a regular basis.
Cobble Stone
Cobblestone has long been a popular choice for landscaping, due to its natural beauty and versatility. With its irregular size and shape, cobblestone offers a distinctive visual appeal that is perfectly suited to modern landscape design trends.
Not only does it help to create an eye-catching look, but it also adds texture and depth to the overall aesthetic. In addition, cobble stone serves an important structural purpose as well, providing strong underpinnings for driveways, sidewalks, and other paved surfaces.
Whether used on its own or incorporated into more complex designs, cobble stone can help to lend a sophisticated touch of style to any garden or outdoor area.
Slate
Slate is a sedimentary rock that is composed of fine-grained clay and minerals. It is a metamorphic rock that has a smooth, flat surface and is suitable for a variety of applications, including roofing, flooring, and walls. It is also a popular material for landscaping due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Slate comes in a variety of colours, from light grey to deep black, and can be used to create patios, walkways, and other hardscaping features.
It is also easy to cut and shape, making it ideal for use in gardens and walkways. Slate can help to regulate moisture levels in the soil, preventing erosion and promoting plant growth.
In addition, slate is low-maintenance and easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners. Because of its many benefits, slate is an increasingly popular material for landscaping projects.
Quartzite
Quartzite is a type of metamorphic rock that is prized for its strength, durability and natural resistance to staining and moisture. Unlike other rocks, quartzite is resistant to both physical and chemical weathering, making it an ideal choice for landscaping applications, such as paving stones, retaining walls, and garden edging.
In addition, quartzite’s natural coloration can provide a striking contrast to other materials in the landscape.
Decorative Stone
Decorative stones are a popular choice for many landscaping projects. They provide a natural look and can be used in a variety of ways to create interesting visual effects.
Stones can be used as borders, edging, or paths, they can also be used as part of water features, or garden beds. In addition, decorative stones can help to improve drainage and reduce the amount of maintenance required for your landscape.
With so many uses and benefits, it’s no wonder that decorative stones are such a popular choice for landscaping projects.
Examples of Decorative Stones:
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is a type of small, round rock that is often used in landscaping and gardening. It is usually about the size of a pea, hence its name. Pea gravel can be used in a number of different ways in the garden. It can be used as a mulch around plants, as a drainage material in pots and planters, or as a topdressing for potted plants. Pea gravel is also often used as an edging material for paths and walkways. It is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for many gardeners.
Pebbles
Landscaping with pebbles can create a unique and eye-catching look for your outdoor space. Pebbles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, so you can easily find an option that will complement your existing landscaping or overall theme.
In addition to their visual appeal, pebbles are also very versatile and can be used in a number of different ways. For example, they can be used to create footpaths, borders, or outlines for flower beds. They can also be used to fill in gaps between pavers or stones.
Pebble Examples:
As you can see from this small selection, there is a wide range of options open to you with regard to the types of stone that you can use and integrate into your landscape.
At Country Earth we have a wealth of experience in bringing a project together and creating a pleasing outdoor area that meets all your requirements.
Contact us on 0407 384 149 for further information and a quote on your landscaping project.