Build a Stone Wall: Create a stunning retaining wall around your flower garden using layered stones. Enhance the visual appeal by interspersing larger stones among the blooms for added texture.
Let Weeds Grow: Utilize rocks in rocky or shallow soil and allow grass, ground cover plants, and even weeds to spread. This natural approach, favored by landscaping expert Jan Johnsen, adds a rustic charm to your garden.
Use River Rocks: Opt for river rocks of various colors and sizes to add texture to your garden without the need for large boulders. Landscape designer Ryan Harter showcases this technique beautifully in his rock garden designs.
Plant Small Succulents: Infuse personality into retaining walls by planting tiny succulents between stones. Hardy plants like hens and chicks thrive in this environment, adding visual interest and resilience to your garden.
Design a Waterfall: Create the allure of a natural waterfall by arranging rocks alongside a hillside and incorporating a water feature. Flat, sharply-edged rocks are ideal for achieving a realistic cascade effect.
Mix Stones and Pebbles: Let larger rocks serve as focal points while filling in the space with pebbles, gravel, and greenery. This balanced approach adds depth and texture to your garden design.
Create a Stone Walkway: Line flat stones along a hillside to craft a charming pathway. Surround the walkway with a mix of rocks, perennial flowers, and tropical greens for a picturesque garden feature.
Arrange Rocks on a Hillside: Nestle large boulders into the soil of a slight hill or mound, layering in smaller stones for added drama. Incorporate a water source to mimic a realistic stream and elevate the visual appeal.
Embrace a Lush Look: Allow ground cover plants to thrive between stepping stones and over boulders. Landscaper Jan Johnsen recommends plants like sedums, phlox, hellebores, and lungworts to create a vibrant and verdant garden landscape.